

LESSONS



FROM

THE

EPISTLES TO THE

CORINTHIANS

S7,,V‘ 'lir' •

SABBATH

SCHOOL

LESSON

arter, 1966

THE BLESSING OF DAILY STUDY

"The beauty and riches of the Word have a transforming influence on

mind and character."—Christ's

Object Lessons,

page 132.

"There is nothing more calculated to strengthen the intellect than the study

of the Scriptures. No other book is so potent to elevate the thoughts, to

give vigor to the faculties, as the broad, ennobling truths of the Bible. If

God's Word were studied as it should be, men would have a breadth of

mind, a nobility of character, and a stability of purpose rarely seen in these

times."—Steps to Christ,

page 9o.

My Daily Lesson Study Pledge

As one who greatly desires to improve his knowledge of the Scriptures, I pledge

myself to the careful and prayerful study of some portion of my Sabbath School

lesson each day of the week.

Name

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Lesson Titles for the Quarter

Establishment of the Corinthian Church

Backgrounds of the Corinthian Epistles

Christian Unity

Warnings Against Immorality

Counsels Concerning Marriage

Relationships Between Churc Members

Profiting From Israel's Failure

Spiritual Gifts



Love, the More Excellent Way

10.

The Hope of the Resurrection

11.

Fortitude in Affliction

12.

Christian Liberality

13.

Concluding Admonitions

Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 283, January-March, 1966. 20 cents a single copy, 75 cents a

year (four issues) ; no additional charge to countries requiring extra postage. Published in the U.S.A.

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Printed in U.S.A.

Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly

LESSONS FROM THE EPISTLES TO THE CORINTHIANS

GENERAL INTRODUCTION

This quarter's lessons are devoted to a

study of First and Second Corinthians.

From a doctrinal and practical point of

view, First Corinthians is one of the most

important epistles in the New Testament.

Most of the lessons will be based on this

epistle; the remainder will draw on the

practical instructions of the second letter.

If the church at Corinth appears to us

to have been unusually faulty, it should

be remembered that it had been in exis-

tence only a few years, that Christian-

ity had been established only recently on

the soil of Europe, and that the whole

Christian tradition was young. Leader-

ship for the infant church had to be se-

lected from the new converts, many of

whom had been pagans but a short time

before.

"Many Romans lived in the city [Cor-

inth], also Greeks and Orientals. There

was also a Jewish community large enough

to have its own synagogue. A stone lintel

with a fragmentary inscription `[Synal-

gogue of the Hebr[ews]' has been found

there. . . . The script shows that it comes

from a building of the 4th cent. A.D., which

may, however, have been at the place on

which the synagogue of Paul's day had

stood (Acts 18:4). The contrast in the

social ;statusof the rather mixed population

was great, probably two thirds of the pop-

ulation being made up of slaves. Hence,

many were poor, and a small number

were exceedingly rich."—S.D.A.

Bible Dic-

tionary,

page 223.

"Into this city of six hundred thousand

inhabitants—this seething mass of Jews,

merchants, philosophers, ex-soldiers, retail-

ers, and agents of vice—the lonely and

suffering apostle found his way. With all

their faults of head and of heart, these

Greeks aroused his deepest interest. . . .

He learnt to love the Corinthians with in-

tense affection, though he never had to

deal with any Church so inflated and so

immoral, so indifferent to his sufferings,

so contemptuous towards his teaching, or

so tolerant of the opposition and the cal-

umnies of his personal enemies and rivals."

—The Pulpit Commentary,

on 1 Corin-

thians, page ii.

Lesson 1, for January 1, 1966

Establishment of the Corinthian Church

MEMORY VERSE:

"And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency

of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God

. For I

determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and Him

crucified." 1 Cor. 2:1, 2.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 243-254; "S.D.A. Bible Com-

mentary."

STUDY AIM:

To study the beginnings of the Corinthian church, the characteristics

of its members, and environmental factors affecting the members' experiences,

so as to understand better the letters addressed to this church.

[31

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Sunday: Learn memory verse; Gen-

eral Introduction; Introduction

to lesson; questions 1-3.



❑

Monday: Questions 4-6.

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❑

Tuesday: Questions 7-11.

Wednesday: Questions 12-14.

Thursday: Read study helps.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Check Here

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Preparation for the Second Mission-

ary Journey

Motivation for the journey. Acts

15:36.

Break with Barnabas. Acts 15:

37-40.

Enlistment of Timothy. Acts

16:1-3.

II. The Gospel to Europe

The call in a night vision. Acts

16:6-10.

Luke joins the company. Acts

16:11.

6. Evangelism in various European

cities. Acts 16:12, 13; 17:1, 2, 10,

11, 15-17.

III. Beginnings in Corinth

7. Means of livelihood. Acts 18:1-3.

8. Beginning of gospel witness. Acts

18:4.

9. Intensification of campaign, Acts

18:5.

10. Opposition aroused. Acts 18:6-8.

11. Encouragement imparted. Acts

18:9, 10.

IV. The Work Established

12. Evangelism continued. Acts 18:11.

13. Opposition renewed. Acts 18:12-17.

14. Campaign ended. Acts 18:18.

THE LESSON

Introduction

From the historical records in the book

of Acts we shall reconstruct in this lesson

the circumstances surrounding the found-

ing of the Christian church in the ancient

city of Corinth. A knowledge of these

backgrounds is essential to an understand-

ing of the message of the epistles that Paul

wrote to this church.

"During the first century of the Chris-

tian Era, Corinth was one of the leading

cities, not only of Greece, but of the world.

Greeks, Jews, and Romans, with travelers

from every land, thronged its streets, ea-

gerly intent on business and pleasure. A

great commercial center, situated within

easy access of all parts of the Roman Em-

pire, it was an important place in which

to establish memorials for God and His

truth."-The

Acts of the Apostles,

page

243.

"The city was universally known for its

immorality. The term 'Corinthian girl'

was synonymous with 'prostitute,' and 'to

Corinthianize' meant to lead an immoral

life. In later Greek comedies 'Corinthian'

is occasionally the designation for a drunk-

ard. According to Strabo there were about

1,000 slave girls as temple prostitutes in

the sanctuary of Aphrodite located on

Acrocorinthus.

An inscription shows they

had their own seats in the theater. These

conditions throw light on Paul's refer-

ences to the immorality of the pagan world

in his two letters to the Corinthians (1 Cor

5:1; 6:9-20; 10:8; 2 Cor 7:1), and in his

letter to the Romans (Rom 1:18-32),

written while he was at Corinth during

his 3d Missionary Journey."-S.D.A.

Bible

Dictionary,

page 223. The church estab-

lished in this profligate city was indeed a

monument to the grace of God.

Preparation for the Second

Missionary Journey

After having returned from his

first missionary journey and having

spent some time at Antioch in Syria,

what motivated Paul to set out on

another missionary journey? Acts

15:36.

NoTE.—"Both Paul and Barnabas had a

tender regard for those who had recently

accepted the gospel message under their

ministry, and they longed to see them once

more. This solicitude Paul never lost. Even

when in distant mission fields, far from

the scene of his earlier labors, he continued

to bear upon his heart the burden of urg-

ing these converts to remain faithful, 'per-

fecting holiness in the fear of God.'

. . . Constantly he tried to help them to

become self-reliant, growing Christians,

strong in faith, ardent in zeal, and whole-

hearted in their consecration to God and to

the work of advancing His kingdom."—The

Acts of the Apostles,

page 201.

What caused Paul's break with

Barnabas, and who accompanied Paul

on his second missionary journey?

Acts 15:37-40.

NOTE.—"Barnabas was ready to go with

Paul, but wished to take with them Mark,

who had again decided to devote himself

to the ministry. To this Paul objected. He

`thought not good to take . . . with them'

one who during their first missionary jour-

ney had left them in a time of need. He

was not inclined to excuse Mark's weak-

ness in deserting the work for the safety

and comforts of home. He urged that one

with so little stamina was unfitted for

work requiring patience, self-denial, brav-

ery, devotion, faith, and a willingness to

sacrifice, if need be, even life itself. So

sharp was the contention that Paul and

Barnabas separated, the latter following

out his convictions and taking Mark with

him."—The Acts of the Apostles,

page 202.

Who joined the evangelistic

company at Lystra? Acts 16:1-3.

The Gospel to Europe

What circumstances led Paul to

carry the gospel to Europe? Acts

16:6-10.

NOTE.—"Both Roman power and Greek

culture are the servants and agents of

Paul as he stands upon the shores of the

Aegean Sea and faces the problems of

Europe. It is one of those eras in history

which give one pause. One can but won-

der what might have been the result if

Paul had not pushed on to Troas, but had

turned back to Cappadocia and Pontus, to

Armenia and Babylonia, to India and

China. Others might in time have carried

the gospel westward, as some did to Rome.

But if the stamp of Paul were removed

from Macedonia, Achaia, and Rome, Chris-

tian history would not have run the same

course."—A. T. Robertson,

Epochs in the

Life of Paul,

page 146 (1935 ed.).

Who else joined the company

at this point? Acts 16:11.

NOTE.—"Luke, the writer of the Gospel

that bears his name, was a medical mis-

sionary. In the Scriptures he is called 'the

beloved physician.' . . . The apostle Paul

heard of his skill as a physician, and

sought him out as one to whom the Lord

had entrusted a special work. He secured

his cooperation, and for some time Luke

accompanied him in his travels from place

to place."—The

Ministry of Healing,

pages

140, 141.

"We have not had Luke's presence in

the story before, and it is revealed here

by the use of 'we' and 'us' (Acts 16:10).

Where Luke joined the party we are not

told. It is possible, though pure conjec-

ture, that this 'beloved physician' (Col.

4:14) may have saved Paul's life during

his sickness in Galatia (Gal. 4:13). But

the appearance of this Gentile Christian

(one of Paul's new converts?) on the

scene is an event of the first importance

in the life of Paul. He will not, indeed, be

with Paul constantly, though he is in the

story in Acts steadily, from Acts 20:5 to

the end, as well as from 16:10 to Philippi

(the 'we' sections). He is with Paul in

[6]

Rome in both of his imprisonments (Col.

4:14; 2 Tim. 3:11)."—A. T. Robertson,

Epochs in the Life of Paul,

page 147.

At what important centers did

Paul preach the gospel before arriv-

ing at Corinth? Acts 16:12, 13; 17:1,

2, 10, 11, 15-17.

Beginnings in Corinth

Arriving at Corinth, in what did

the apostle engage to earn a liveli-

hood? Acts 18:1-3. Compare 1 Cor.

9:14, 15; 1 Thess. 2:9.

NozE.—"The volatile suspicious char-

acter of the people made the apostle feel

the necessity for being most carefully on his

guard. He was determined to set an ex-

ample of the most lofty and disinterested

self-denial. He had been trained to a

trade, like every other Jewish boy, in

accordance with a wise rule of the rabbis.

His trade was the humble and mechanical

trade of tent-making; and finding a Jew-

ish compatriot named Aquila, who worked

at this trade, with his wife Priscilla, he

entered into partnership with them. They

had been expelled from Rome by a decree

of Claudius, in A.D. 52, and had probably

been converted to Christianity by the un-

known disciples who had founded the

Roman Church. With them St. Paul

formed a happy and lifelong friendship,

and by toiling with them, he was able to

earn a living, which was, however, so

scanty that it often barely sufficed even

for his simple wants (Acts xx.34; ch. iv.

11, 12; ix.4, 12; 2 Cor. vii.2; xi.9)."—

The Pulpit Commentary,

on 1 Corinthians,

pages ii,

"The envy and rage of the Jews against

the Christians knew no bounds, and the

unbelieving residents were constantly stirred

up. They made complaints that the Chris-

tian Jews were disorderly, and dangerous

to the public good. Constantly they were

setting in motion something that would

stir up strife. This caused the Christians

to be banished fro'ffri ,R9me. Among those

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business as manufacturers of tents."—Ellen

G. White Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Com-

mentary,

Vol. 6, p. 1063.

How did Paul begin his gospel

witness in that great commercial

center? Acts 18:4.

What incident led Paul to be

more bold in his witness for Christ?

Acts 18:5.

NOTE.—Silas and Tiinothy had been with

Paul last at Athens, where he had sum-

moned them after his expulsion from

Berea. At that time he sent Timothy back

to Thessalonica to ascertain how the young

believers there were faring after the out-

break of persecution. Silas also returned

to Macedonia. Now they rejoined Paul.

The good news they brought of the state

of the church in Macedonia greatly en-

couraged Paul's heart, giving him new

boldness and power in his preaching.

10.

What was the reaction of the

Jews, and what did this lead Paul

to do? Acts 18:6-8.

NOTE.—"The hatred with which the Jews

had always regarded the apostles was now

intensified. The conversion and baptism of

Crispus had the effect of exasperating in-

stead of convincing these stubborn oppos-

ers. They could not bring arguments to

disprove Paul's preaching, and for lack of

such evidence they resorted to deception

and malignant attack. They blasphemed

the gospel and the name of Jesus. In their

blind anger no words were too bitter, no

device too low, for them to use."—The

Acts

of the Apostles,

page 249.

11.

In the midst of opposition and

persecution, what • encouragement

came to Paul? Acts 18:9, 10.

NOTE.—"Though Paul had a measure of

sactess in COrinth, yet the wickedness that

he saw a,ricl:Theard in that corrupt city al-

[ 61 '

most disheartened him. The depravity

that he witnessed among the Gentiles, and

the contempt and insult that he received

from the Jews, caused him great anguish of

spirit. He doubted the wisdom of trying

to build up a church from the material

that he found there.

"As he was planning to leave the city

for a more promising field, and seeking

earnestly to understand his duty, the Lord

appeared to him in a vision and said, 'Be

not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy

peace: for I am with thee, and no man

shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have

much people in this city.'

"—The Acts of

the Apostles,

page 250.

The Work Established

12. How long did Paul remain in

Corinth establishing a new Christian

community? Acts 18:11.

NoTE.—If Paul's second missionary jour-

ney be dated

A.D.

49 to 52, his eighteen-

month ministry in Corinth would fall in

the latter part of this period, or about 51

and 52. See

S.D.A. Bible Dictionary,

pages

826, 827.

13.

What new opposition was

aroused, and what was its outcome?

Acts 18:12-17.

Nora.—"The Jewish religion was under

the protection of the Roman power, and

the accusers of Paul thought that if they

could fasten upon him the charge of vio-

lating the laws of their religion, he would

probably be delivered to them for trial

and sentence. They hoped thus to compass

his death. But Gallio was a man of in-

tegrity, and he refused to become the dupe

of the jealous, intriguing Jews. Disgusted

with their bigotry and self-righteousness,

he would take no notice of the charge."—

The Acts of the Apostles,

page 253.

14.

How did Paul conclude his

labors in Corinth? Acts 18:18.

Lesson

2, for January 8, 1966

Backgrounds of the Corinthian Epistles

MEMORY VERSE:

"For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote unto

you with many tears; not that ye should be grieved, but that ye might know

the love which I have more abundantly unto you." 2 Corinthians 2:4.

STUDY HELPS:

Introductions to 1 and 2 Corinthians in "S.D.A. Bible Commentary";

"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 298-301; "S.D.A. Bible Dictionary."

STUDY AIM:

To present the background of the writing of the two letters to the

Corinthian believers.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Sunday: Begin learning memory

verse; Introduction; questions

1-3.



❑

Monday: Questions 4-6.



❑

Tuesday: Questions 7-9.

Wednesday: Questions 10-12.

Thursday: Read study helps.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Check Here

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Background of 1 Corinthians

Paul at Ephesus on third journey.

Acts 19:1, 10; 20:31.

Paul writes 1 Corinthians while at

Ephesus. 1 Cor. 16:8, 19.

Circumstances that occasioned the

letter. 1 Cor. 1:11; 5:1; 7:1.

A secretary writes the letter. 1 Cor.

16:21.

Earlier correspondence. 1 Cor. 5:9.

The author identified. 1 Cor.1:1;

16:21.

II. Background of 2 Corinthians

Paul's plans alter leaving Ephesus.

Acts 19:21.

Paul's departure hastened. Acts

19:24-41.

Paul's experience in Troas. 2 Cor.

2:12, 13.

10.

Meeting of Paul and Titus'in Mace-

donia occasions second epistle.

2 Cor. 7:5-7.

11.

Confirming evidence that 2 Co-

rinthians was written from Mace-

donia. 2 Cor. 8:1; 9:2, 4.

12.

Reference to former epistle. 2 Cor.

2:4.

THE LESSON

Introduction

Before beginning the study of a Biblical

book we should (1) identify the author and

become acquainted with him; (2) learn all

we can of those to whom the message was

addressed; (3) become acquainted with

the times in which they lived; and (4) re-

construct the circumstances that occasioned

the giving of the message. When the mes-

sage is studied, it is well to seek to as-

certain first what the message meant to

those who first heard it; then we should

apply its lessons to ourselves.

Notice how this method of study is

applied to the Sermon on the Mount: "Let

us in imagination go back to that scene,

and, as we sit with the disciples on the

mountainside, enter into the thoughts and

feelings that filled their hearts. Under-

standing what the words of Jesus meant to

those who heard them, we may discern in

them a new vividness and beauty, and

may also gather for ourselves their deepet

lessons."-Thoughts From the Mount of

Blessing,

page 1.

In this lesson we shall reconstruct the

backgrounds of the Corinthian epistles. In

subsequent lessons, as we study the con-

tents of the books, we shall first seek to

understand what the messages meant to

the Corinthian believers when the letters

were read to them; then we shall draw

for ourselves their deeper lessons.

Background of 1 Corinthians

On his third missionary journey,

what city did Paul

make the center

of his evangelistic activities? Acts 19:

1, 10; 20:31.

NOTE.

-"For over three years Ephesus

was the center of Paul's work. A flourish-

ing church was raised up here, and from

this city the gospel spread throughout the

province of Asia, among both Jews and

Gentiles."-The

Acts of the Apostles,

page

291.

Where was Paul when he wrote

what is now called his first epistle to

the Corinthians? During what part

of his stay there was it written? 1 Cor.

16:8, 19.

NOTE.

-These

verses show clearly that

1 Corinthians was written while Paul was

at Ephesus. His mention of waiting till

after Pentecost before setting out for Mace-

donia and Achaia suggests that the letter

most probably was written in the spring

of the year, shortly before leaving Ephesus

after three years of ministry there. It is

difficult to date the events in Paul's life

[ 8 ]

precisely, but according to one scheme of

chronology 1 Corinthians was written in

the spring of AD. 57. See the

S.D.A. Bible

Commentary,

Vol. 6, pp. 101-103.

The note at the end of 1 Corinthians ap-

pearing in certain Bibles stating that "the

first epistle to the Corinthians was written

from Philippi" is not a part of Scripture,

but is an editorial note appended in recent

centuries. It does not accord with historical

facts, nor with the statement, "The first

epistle to the Corinthian church was writ-

ten by the apostle Paul during the latter

part of his stay at Ephesus."—The

Acts of

the Apostles,

page 298.

3. What are some of the circum-

stances that occasioned the writing

of the letter? 1 Cor. 1:11; 5:1; 7:1.

NOTE.—"During Paul's absence since the

founding of the church some three years

before, . . . numerous problems had arisen

that demanded the apostle's attention. We

learn of these from the epistle itself. First

of all, factions had disrupted the church.

Because of his eloquence and learning,

Apollos was exalted above Paul by many

in the church (see 1 Cor. 1:12; 3:4; cf.

Acts 18:24 to 19:1). Others boasted that

they were followers of neither Paul nor

Apollos, but of Peter, one of the original

apostles (1 Cor. 1:12). Still others dis-

claimed adherence to any human leader

and professed to be followers of Christ

(ch. 1:12).

"Furthermore, living as did the members

of the Corinthian church in the midst of

the profligate people of Corinth, many

who had renounced their wicked ways

slipped back into their old habits of life

(ch. 5). Further, disrepute had come upon

the church by Christians settling their quar-

rels in the secular courts. The Lord's Sup-

per had been made an occasion for feasting

(ch. 11:17-34). Questions had also arisen

regarding marriage and related social prob-

lems (ch. 7), the eating of foods sacrificed

to idols (ch. 8), the proper conduct of

women in public worship (ch. 11:2-16).

There was misunderstanding also regarding

the proper function of spiritual gifts (chs.

12-14). Some were skeptical regarding the

fact and manner of the resurrection (ch.

15)."—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol. 6,

p. 656.

What statement shows that Paul

employed a secretary to write this

epistle? 1 Cor. 16:21.

NOTE.—The fact that Paul affixes his

greeting with his own hand implies that

the rest of the epistle was written by some-

one else's hand, although at Paul's dicta-

tion.

It is said of Paul that "he dictated to

the faithful Sosthenes one of the richest,

most instructive, and most powerful of all

his letters,—the first extant Epistle to the

Corinthians."—Ellen G. White,

Sketches

From the Life of Paul,

page 151.

What shows that 1 Corinthians

was not Paul's first letter to the Co-

rinthian church? 1 Cor. 5:9.

NOTE.—This letter has been lost. Nothing

is known of it except this brief mention.

The New Testament does not contain all

the correspondence of its writers.

"Paul had written briefly to the church,

admonishing them 'not to company' with

members who should persist in profligacy;

but many of the believers perverted the

apostle's meaning, quibbled over his words,

and excused themselves for disregarding his

instruction."—The

Acts of the Apostles,

page 300.

How is Paul identified as the

author of the epistle? 1 Cor. 1:1;

16:21.

Background of 2 Corinthians

After concluding his ministry in

Ephesus, what did Paul plan to do?

Acts 19:21. Compare 1 Cor. 16:8.

NoTE.—Paul's original plan was to go to

Corinth and from there to Macedonia and

then to return to Corinth once more before

going to Jerusalem. He later changed

his

plans and went to Macedonia first.

What events hastened Paul's de-

parture from Ephesus and his setting

out for Macedonia? Acts 19:24-41.

Compare 1 Cor. 15:32; 2 Cor. 1:8.

NOTE.—"He was, indeed, hurried away

from Ephesus rather sooner than he had

expected. It is possible, though not cer-

tain, that 1 Corinthians was written from

Ephesus about the passover time (1 Cor.

5:7). He did not remain till Pentecost

(1 Cor. 16:8) in spite of 'a great door and

effectual' which was opened unto him. The

`many adversaries' at last proved too much

for him. It had already come to be like

fighting wild beasts to go on at Ephesus

(1 Cor. 15:32). He was in daily peril of

his life. He had held his ground at Ephesus

longer even than at Corinth. But finally a

condition arose that drove him away, a

consolation perhaps to many a pastor who

has had to leave the scene of former

triumphs for Christ."—A. T. Robertson,

Epochs in the Life of Paul,

page 184.

At what city did Paul stop en

route, and what prevented his taking

advantage of an opportunity to preach

Christ's gospel? 2 Cor. 2:12, 13.

NOTE.—"Verses 12, 13 reveal Paul's deep

personal affection for the Corinthian be-

lievers and his unabated interest in their

welfare. He had apparently dispatched

Titus to Corinth to work for the restora-

tion of harmony and to obtain a full report

of conditions and of how the Corinthians

received his letter of reproof (cf. AA 323).

It seems that they had agreed to meet each

other at Troas, but Titus had apparently

been prevented from keeping that appoint-

ment."—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

on 2

Cor. 2:12.

10.

Where did Titus meet Paul,

and what was the effect on Paul of

his arrival? 2 Cor. 7:5-7.

NOTE.—"At length the long-expected

Titus arrived at Philippi, and relieved the

anxiety of his master by better tidings than

he had hoped to hear. The majority of the

Corinthian Church had submitted to the

injunctions of St. Paul, and testified the

deepest repentance for the sins into which

they had fallen. They had passed sentence

of excommunication upon the incestuous

person, and they had readily contributed

towards the collection for the poor Chris-

tians of Palestine. But there was still a

minority, whose opposition seems to have

been rather imbittered than humbled by

the submission which the great body of the

Church had thus yielded. They proclaimed,

in a louder and more contemptuous tone

than ever, their accusations against the

Apostle."—Conybeare and Howson,

The

Life and Epistles of Saint Paul,

1906 ed.,

p. 483.

It was this news from Corinth that oc-

casioned the writing of 2 Corinthians. The

letter was dispatched from Macedonia some

weeks after the sending of 1 Corinthians.

Shortly after this Paul visited the church

again.

11.

What further evidences are

there that Paul was in Macedonia

when he wrote 2 Corinthians? 2 Cor.

8:1; 9:2, 4.

12.

In his second letter, with what

feelings did Paul say he had written

his former epistle? 2 Cor. 2:4.

NOTE.—"With 'anguish of heart' and with

`many tears' he sought counsel from God.

Gladly would he have visited Corinth at

once, had this been the wisest course to

pursue. But he knew that in their present

condition the believers would not profit by

his labors, and therefore he sent Titus to

prepare the way for a visit from himself

later on. Then, putting aside all personal

feelings over the course of those whose

conduct revealed such strange perverseness,

and keeping his soul stayed upon God, the

apostle wrote to ' the church at Corinth

one of the richest, most instructive, most

powerful of all his letters."—The

Acts of

the Apostles,

pages 300, 301.

[10

]

Lesson 3, for January 15, 1966

Christian Unity

MEMORY VERSE:

"Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus

Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions

among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and

in the same judgment." 1 Cor. 1:10.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 301-303; "S.D.A. Bible Com-

mentary."

STUDY AIM:

From Paul's counsel to the disunited Corinthian believers, to establish

principles of true Christian unity.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Sunday: Begin learning memory

verse; Introduction; questions

1,2. ,



❑

Monday: Questions 3-6.



❑

Tuesday: Questions 7-9.

Wednesday: Questions 10-13.

Thursday: Read study helps.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

❑

Check Here

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Introductory Remarks

Greeting. 1 Cor. 1:1-3.

Thanksgiving commendation.

1 Cor. 1:4-9.

II. Factions in the Church

Information regarding factions

reaches Paul. 1 Cor. 1:10, 11.

The factions identified. 1 Cor. 1:12.

III. The True Wisdom of God

Greek love of philosophy. 1 Cor.

1:17, 22, 23.

The true basis of glorying. 1 Cor.

1:26-31.

Paul's manner of ministry. 1 Cor.

2:1-5.

The wisdom of God revealed.

1 Cor. 2:6-9.

The Holy Spirit the revealer.

1 Cor. 2:10-16.

IV. The True Position of the Gospel

Minister

10.

The spiritual experience of the dis-

united Corinthian believers. 1 Cor.

3:1-4.

11.

The minister a colaborer with God.

1 Cor. 3:5-9.

12.

The minister must take heed how

he builds. 1 Cor. 3:10-17.

13.

Paul's experiences contrasted with

those of Corinthian teachers.

1 Cor. 4:8-16.

THE LESSON

Introduction

Only a few short years after Paul had

established the Corinthian church, a de-

plorable party spirit divided the young con-

gregation into several factions, with groups

taking sides in support of or against for-

mer pastors and ministers, including Apollos.

The apostle Paul was severely criticized,

and he knew that he must act to meet the

problem.

"Paul had sought to impress upon the

minds of his Corinthian brethren the fact

that he and the ministers associated with

him were but men commissioned by God

to teach the truth, that they were all en-

gaged in the same work, and that they

were alike dependent upon God for success

in their labors. . . .

"It was Paul who had first preached the

gospel in Corinth, and who had organized

the church there. This was the work that

the Lord had assigned him. Later, by

God's direction, other workers were brought

in, to stand in their lot and place. The

seed sown must be watered, and this

Apollos was to do. He followed Paul in

his work, to give further instruction, and

to help the seed sown to develop. He won

his way to the hearts of the people, but

it was God who gave the increase. It is

not human, but divine power, that works

transformation of character. Those who

plant and those who water do not cause

the growth of the seed; they work under

God, as His appointed agencies, coopera-

ting with Him in His work. To the Master

Worker belongs the honor and glory that

comes with success."—The

Acts of the

Apostles,

pages 273, 274.

In chapters one to four of 1 Corinthians,

Paul deals with various aspects of the prob-

lem of party spirit and makes a powerful

appeal for Christian unity.

Introductory Remarks

Name the various elements in

Paul's opening salutation to the Co-

rinthian church? 1 Cor. 1:1-3.

NoTE.—Little is known of the Sosthenes

who here appears as joint sender of the

epistle. He may be identical with the

Sosthenes, head of the synagogue at Cor-

inth, mentioned in Acts 18:17. If so, he

must have been converted after the events

of Acts 18.

What privileges and benefits had

been enjoyed by the Corinthians?

1 Cor. 1:4-9.

Non.—Paul did not hesitate to give

commendation where commendation was

due. It was diplomatic for him to do so in

the introduction to his letter, because it

would help him to gain a favorable hearing

for the severe rebukes to follow. However,

it is interesting to note that Paul did not

praise the Corinthian believers directly;

his praise was directed to God, whose

grace, and not the believers' own effort,

had produced the spiritual felicity.

Factions in the Church

Having concluded his intro-

ductory remarks, into what subject

did Paul abruptly launch? 1 Cor.

1:10, 11.

NOTE.—"About this time there came to

Ephesus members of the household of

Chloe, a Christian family of high repute

in Corinth. Paul asked them regarding the

condition of things, and they told him that

the church was rent by divisions. The dis-

sensions that had prevailed at the time of

Apollos's visit had greatly increased. False

teachers were leading the members to de-

spise the instructions of Paul. The doctrines

and ordinances of the gospel had been

perverted. Pride, idolatry, and sensualism

were steadily increasing among those who

had once been zealous in the Christian life."

—The Acts of the Apostles,

page 300.

"Paul was an inspired apostle. The truths

he taught to others he had received 'by

revelation;' yet the Lord did not directly

reveal to him at all times just the condition

of His people. In this instance, those who

were interested in the prosperity of the

church at Corinth, and who had seen evils

creeping in, had presented the matter be-

fore the apostle, and from divine revela-

tions which he had formerly received he

was prepared to judge of the character of

these developments."—Ibid., p. 302.

Of what nature were the fac-

tions? 1 Cor. 1:12.

NOTE.—"Apollos . . . a Jewish convert to

the message of John the Baptist, described

as being diligent, fervent, and 'an eloquent

man, and mighty in the scriptures' (Acts

18:24, 25). He was born at the Egyptian

city of Alexandria. After his conversion

he became an itinerent evangelist (chs 18:

24, 27; 19:1). While preaching at Ephesus

[ 12 ]

he met Aquila and Priscilla, Christian Jews,

who instructed him in the tenets of Chris-

tianity (ch 18:26, 28). After this Apollos

went to the Roman province of Achaia,

taking with him a letter of recommenda-

tion from the church at Ephesus (v 27).

While in Achaia he preached with success

in the city of Corinth (chs 18:28; 19:1),

and because of his abilities became popu-

lar with a certain faction that began to

exalt him, as opposed to other groups

which exalted Paul, Peter, or Christ (1 Cor

1:12). This condition received no encour-

agement from Apollos, and it was doubtless

because of it that he refused to return to

Corinth when Paul asked him to do so

(ch 16:12). In his rebuke to the church

for their factious spirit Paul stated that he

and Apollos were 'one,' and 'laborers to-

gether' (ch 3:6-9)."—S.D.A.

Bible Diction-

ary,

page 59.

The True Wisdom of God

What characteristic of the an-

cient Greeks in part lay at the basis

of the factions? 1 Cor. 1:17, 22, 23.

NOTE.—"The Greeks prized highly their

subtle and learned methods of disputation

and the polished eloquence of their orators.

Paul did not seek to emulate their involved,

philosophical style of rhetoric. The success

of the gospel does not depend on these

things, and the apostle had not exhibited

them in his preaching. His teaching and

manner of speech were not such as called

forth the praise of the sophisticated Greeks.

They did not regard his preaching as wise.

He was anxious that the glory of the cross

of Christ should not be obscured by human

philosophy and elegant oratory, and thus

the glory be given to man instead of to

God. The preaching of the cross depends

for its success, not upon the power of hu-

man reasoning and the charm of polished

argumentation, but upon the impact of its

simple truth attended by the power of the

Holy Spirit."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on 1 Cor. 1:17.

Instead of glorying in human

wisdom, in what should the Corin-

thian believers have been glorying?

1 Cor. 1:26-31.

In view of the Greek tendency,

and of the characteristics of the gos-

pel, of what nature had been Paul's

ministry in Corinth? 1 Cor. 2:1-5.

NoTE.—"In preaching the gospel in Cor-

inth, the apostle followed a course differ-

ent from that which had marked his labors

at Athens. While in the latter place, he had

sought to adapt his style to the character

of his audience; he had met logic with logic,

science with science, philosophy with

philosophy. As he thought of the time

thus spent, and realized that his teaching

in Athens had been productive of but

little fruit, he decided to follow another

plan of labor in Corinth in his efforts to

arrest the attention of the careless and the

indifferent. He determined to avoid elabo-

rate arguments and discussions, and 'not

to know anything' among the Corinthians

`save Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.'

"—

The Acts of the Apostles,

page 244.

What superior wisdom did the

gospel contain? 1 Cor. 2:6-9.

How only can men attain to the

higher wisdom? 1 Cor. 2:10-16.

The True Position of the Gospel

Minister

10.

What did the presence of fac-

tions indicate as to the spiritual expe-

rience of the Corinthian believers?

1 Cor. 3:1-4.

NOTE.—"Paul had necessarily adapted his

manner of teaching to the condition of the

church. 'I, brethren, could not speak unto

you as unto spiritual,' he afterward ex-

plained to them, 'but as unto carnal, even

as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you

with milk, and not with meat: for hith-

erto ye were not able to bear it, neither

yet now are ye able.' 1 Cor. 3:1, 2. Many

of the Corinthian believers had been slow

to learn the lessons that he was endeavor-

[ 13 ]

ing to teach them. Their advancement in

spiritual knowledge had not been pro-

portionate to their privileges and oppor-

tunities. When they should have been far

advanced in Christian experience, and able

to comprehend and to practice the deeper

truths of the Word, they were standing

where the disciples stood when Christ said

to them, 'I have yet many things to say

unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.'"

—The Acts of the Apostles,

page 271.

11.

How should the Corinthians

have regarded their spiritual leaders

Paul and Apollos? 1 Cor.

3:5-9.

12.

What warning did Paul issue

those who were putting into the

structure of the church worthless

materials? 1 Cor.

3:10-17.

NOTE.—

The apostles built upon a sure

foundation, even the Rock of Ages. To this

foundation they brought the stones that

they quarried from the world. Not without

hindrance did the builders labor. Their

work was made exceedingly difficult by the

opposition of the enemies of Christ. They

had to contend against the bigotry, preju-

dice, and hatred of those who were build-

ing upon a false foundation. Many who

wrought as builders of the church could

be likened to the builders of the wall in

Nehemiah's day, of whom it is written:

`They which builded on the wall, and they

that bare burdens, with those that laded,

every one with one of his hands wrought

in the work, and with the other hand

held a weapon.'

"—The Acts of the Apos-

tles,

pages 596, 597.

13.

In contrast to the boasted

superiority of the Corinthian Chris-

tians, what was the experience of the

apostles who had brought Chris-

tianity to them? 1 Cor. 4:8-16.

Lesson 4, for January 22, 1966

Warnings Against Immorality

MEMORY VERSE:

"Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse

ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the

fear of God." 2 Cor. 7:1.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Adventist Home," pages 326-339; "Testimonies to Ministers,"

pages 444-456; "Testimonies," Vol.

2, pp. 390-411; "S.D.A. Bible Com-

mentary."

STUDY AIM:

study the Biblical warnings against licentiousness.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Tuesday: Questions 8-10.

❑

Sunday: Begin learning memory

verse; Introduction; questions

Wednesday: Questions 11, 12;

begin reading study helps.

1-3.

❑

Thursday: Read study helps.

Monday: Questions 4-7.

❑

Friday: Review the entire lesson.

[

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

1. A Shocking Case of Immorality

The case identified. 1 Cor. 5:1.

The action demanded. 1 Cor.

5:2-5.

The danger of delayed action.

1 Cor. 5:6.

Preparation for approaching feast.

1 Cor. 5:7, 8.

Social relationships with the im-

moral to be avoided. 1 Cor. 5:9-13.

Paul's counsel heeded. 2 Cor. 2:6.

Charity toward the repentant.

2 Cor. 2:7, 8.

II. General Instructions Regarding

Purity

A category of sins condemned.

1 Cor. 6:9, 10.

Hope for the guilty. 1 Cor. 6:11.

10.

Sensuality incompatible with

Christianity. 1 Cor. 6:13, 15, 17.

11.

Counsel to the tempted. 1 Cor.

6:18-20.

12.

The Christian's motivation and

goal. 2 Cor. 7:1.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"Among the more serious of the evils

that had developed among the Corinthian

believers, was that of a return to many

of the debasing customs of heathenism.

One former convert had so far backslidden

that his licentious course was a violation

of even the low standard of morality held

by the Gentile world. The apostle pleaded

with the church to put away from among

them 'that wicked person.' Know ye not,'

he admonished them, 'that a little leaven

leaveneth the whole lump? Purge out

therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a

new lump, as ye are unleavened.'

"-The

Acts of the Apostles,

pages 303, 304.

A Shocking Case of Immorality

1. What shocking situation in the

Corinthian church had been reported

to Paul? 1 Cor. 5:1.

NOTE.-"In

this instance those who were

interested in the prosperity of the church

at Corinth, and who had seen evils creep-

ing in, had presented the matter before the

apostle, and from divine revelations which

he had formerly received he was prepared

to judge of the character of these develop-

ments. Notwithstanding the fact that the

Lord did not give him a new revelation

for that special time, those who were really

seeking for light accepted his message as

expressing the mind of Christ."-The

Acts

of the Apostles,

pages 302, 303.

What had been the position of

the church members in this situation?

What should they have done? 1 Cor.

5:2-5.

What consideration dictated such

prompt and drastic action? 1 Cor. 5:6.

NOTE.-"Why

! oh, why ! will men and

women who might be respectable and good

and reach heaven at last sell themselves

to the devil so cheap, wound their bosom

friends, disgrace their families, bring a re-

proach upon the cause, and go to hell at

last? God have mercy! Why will not those

who are overtaken in crime manifest re-

pentance proportionate to the enormity of

their crime and fly to Christ for mercy and

heal, as far as possible, the wounds they

have made

?"-The Adventist Home,

pages

346, 347.

What preparation did Paul urge

the Corinthian believers to make for

the coming Passover feast? 1 Cor.

5:7,

[ 15 ]

What had been the subject of

a previous letter from Paul, and how

did he now explain the meaning of

his counsels? 1 Cor. 5:9-13.

NoTE.—"It is wrong for Christians to

associate with those whose morals are

loose. . . . If the moral atmosphere sur-

rounding persons is not pure and sancti-

fied, but is tainted with corruption, those

who breathe this atmosphere will find that

it operates almost insensibly upon the in-

tellect and heart to poison and to ruin.

It is dangerous to be conversant with those

whose minds naturally take a low level.

Gradually and imperceptibly those who are

naturally conscientious and love purity

will come to the same level and partake of

and sympathize with the imbecility and

moral barrenness with which they are so

constantly brought in contact."—The

Ad-

ventist Home,

page 462.

What shows that the church

carried out Paul's counsel regarding

the incestuous person? 2 Cor. 2:6.

NoTE.—"The objective of church dis-

cipline had been accomplished; the offender

had repented, and it was now time to re-

store him to the confidence and fellowship

of his brethren. Christian discipline is a

work of love, not of vengeance. Its ob-

jective is not revenge, but restoration. It

must uphold the commandments of God

and maintain church order. It must safe-

guard the other members of the church and

protect the good name of the church, but

it should also, wherever possible, lead the

sinner to repentance. It must serve as a

warning to other potential offenders and a

deterrent to a repetition of the offense."—

S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on 2 Cor. 2:6.

view of his repentance, what

action was the church now to take

toward him, and what attitude were

they to adopt? 2 Cor. 2:7, 8.

NOTE.—"Nothing can justify an unfor-

giving spirit. He who is unmerciful toward

others shows that he himself is not a par-

taker of God's pardoning grace. In God's

forgiveness the heart of the erring one is

drawn close to the great heart of Infinite

Love."—Christ's Object Lessons,

page 251.

General Instructions Regarding

Purity

Of what will unrepentant sin-

ners be deprived? 1 Cor. 6:9, 10.

NOTE.—"Do you not know that the un-

righteous will not inherit the kingdom of

God? Do not be deceived; neither the im-

moral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor

homosexuals, nor thieves, nor the greedy,

nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor robbers

will inherit the kingdom of God." 1 Cor.

6:9, 10, R.S.V.

"A terrible picture of the condition of

the world has been presented before me.

Immorality abounds everywhere. Licen-

tiousness is the special sin of this age.

Never did vice lift its deformed head with

such boldness as now. The people seem to

be benumbed, and the lovers of virtue and

true goodness are nearly discouraged by

its boldness, strength, and prevalence. The

iniquity which abounds is not merely con-

fined to the unbeliever and the scoffer.

Would that this were the case, but it is

not. Many men and women who profess

the religion of Christ are guilty. Even

some who profess to be looking for His

appearing are no more prepared for that

event than Satan himself. They are not

cleansing themselves from all pollution.

They have so long served their lust that it

is natural for their thoughts to be impure

and their imaginations corrupt."—The

Ad-

ventist Home,

page 328. See also

The De-

sire of Ages,

page 656.

What can true religion do for

one guilty of impurity? 1 Cor. 6:11.

NOTE.—"There are many who, though

striving to obey God's commandments,

have little peace or joy. This lack in their

experience is the result of a failure to ex-

[ 16 ]

ercise faith. They walk as it were in a

salt land, a parched wilderness. They claim

little, when they might claim much; for

there is no limit to the promises of God.

Such ones do not correctly represent the

sanctification that comes through obedience

to the truth. The Lord would have all His

sons and daughters happy, peaceful, and

obedient. Through the exercise of faith

the believer comes into possession of these

blessings. Through faith, every deficiency

of character may be supplied, every de-

filement cleansed, every fault corrected,

every excellence developed."—The

Acts of

the Apostles,

pages 563, 564.

10.

By what line of argument did

Paul show that immorality is totally

unbecoming for the Christian? 1 Cor.

6:13, 15, 17.

NOTE.-"I

come again to Christians. If

all who profess to obey the law of God

were free from iniquity, my soul would be

relieved; but they are not. Even some who

profess to keep all the commandments of

God are guilty of the sin of adultery. What

can I say to arouse their, benumbed sen-

sibilities? Moral principle, strictly carried

out, becomes the only safeguard of the

soul."—Testimonies,

Vol. 2, p. 352.

11.

In view of the spiritually de-

structive nature of immorality, what

earnest appeal did Paul make? 1 Cor.

6:18-20.

NOTE.—"I speak to our people. If you

draw close to Jesus and seek to adorn

your profession by a well-ordered life and

godly conversation, your feet will be kept

from straying into forbidden paths. If you

will only watch, continually watch unto

prayer, if you will do everything as if

you were in the immediate presence of God,

you will be saved from yielding to temp-

tation and may hope to be kept pure, spot-

less, and undefiled till the last. If you hold

the beginning of your confidence firm unto

the end, your ways will be established in

God; and what grace has begun, glory

will crown in the kingdom of our God."

—The Adventist Home,

page 338.

12.

In his later letter, what did

Paul say should motivate the Chris-

tian to seek purity of life? 2 Cor. 7:1.

NOTE.—"God requires all who believe the

truth to make special, persevering efforts

to place themselves in the best possible

condition of bodily health, for a solemn

and important work is before us. Health of

body and mind is required for this work; it

is as essential to a healthy religious expe-

rience, to advancement in the Christian life

and progress in holiness, as is the hand or

foot to the human body. God requires His

people to cleanse themselves from all filth-

iness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting

holiness in the fear of the Lord. All those

who are indifferent and excuse themselves

from this work, waiting for the Lord to

do for them that which He requires them

to do for themselves, will be found want-

ing when the meek of the earth, who have

wrought His judgments, are hid in the day

of the Lord's

anger."—Testimonies,

Vol.

1, p. 619.

Lesson 5, for January 29, 1966

Counsels Concerning Marriage

MEMORY VERSE:

"Husbands,

love your wives, even as Christ also loved the

church, and gave Himself for it." Eph. 5:25.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Adventist Home," pages

105-134; "S.D.A.

Bible Commentary."

STUDY AIM:

To understand Paul's counsel to the Corinthians concerning various

aspects of marriage, and to apply this counsel to our present-day situation.

[17]

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND

RECORD



Check Here



Check Here



Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑



Tuesday: Questions 7-9.

Sunday: Learn memory verse; Intro-



Wednesday: Questions 10-13.



duction; questions 1-3.



❑



Thursday: Read study helps.

Monday: Questions 4-6.



❑



Friday: Review entire lesson.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Marriage Advised

Paul's reply to the Corinthians'

question. 1 Cor. 7:1, 2.

Responsibilities and privileges

marriage. 1 Cor. 7:3-5.

Paul's advice qualified. 1 Cor.

7:6, 7.

II. Various Aspects of Marriage

Considered

Counsel for the unmarried and

widows. 1 Cor. 7:8, 9, 26, 29.

Counsel concerning divorce. 1 Cor.

7:10, 11.

6. Counsel concerning unbelieving

spouses. 1 Cor. 7:12-16.

III. Counsels Related to the Times

7. Paul's counsel in view of impending

distress. 1 Cor. 7:25-27.

8. Paul's counsel qualified. 1 Cor.

7:28.

9. Effects on conduct of awareness of

approaching end. 1 Cor. 7:29-31.

IV. Problems of Marriage

10. Anxieties about worldly affairs.

1 Cor. 7:32-35.

11. Problems of the betrothed. 1 Cor.

7:36-38.

12. Condition for remarriage. 1 Cor.

7:39, 40, first part.

13. Paul's authority for his counsel.

1 Cor. 7:40, last part.

THE LESSON

p. 411), were applicable to Christians. Some

in the church may have had no particular

desire to marry, and may have asked Paul

whether it would be acceptable for them to

remain single. If this query was the back-

ground of Paul's statement in ch. 7:1, then

the apostle was not giving general counsel

regarding the propriety of marriage, but

was simply informing this particular group

that it was perfectly proper to remain

single. Some Christians apparently be-

lieved that marriage was a sinful state,

which ought to be avoided and if possible

broken up. This would be an understand-

able reaction against the licentiousness that

was so common in Corinth at that time. In

their zeal to avoid anything in the nature

of fornication they might swing over to

the other extreme of complete abstention

from the marriage relation."—S.D.A.

Bible

Commentary,

on 1 Cor. 7:1.

[ 18 ]

Introduction

"This verse [1 Cor. 7:1] begins a new

section of the epistle, in which there is a

discussion of certain questions that the

Corinthian church had asked Paul. The

letter containing these questions is not

extant, and it is possible for us only to

conjecture as to the range of its queries.

It would be most helpful, for example, to

know what, precisely, were the questions

relating to marriage. The interpretation of

the chapter depends in part upon the nature

of the problem presented in the letter to

him. It seems fitting that the topic of

marriage should be dealt with first, in

Paul's reply, in view of his earnest warn-

ing against fornication (chs. 5; 6). Then

there were probably those in Corinth who

wondered whether the rigid Jewish rules

that made it obligatory for all, at least

the men, to marry (see Mishnah

Yebamoth

6.6, Soncino ed. of the Talmud, Vol. 1,

Marriage Advised

Concerning what subject had

the Corinthian believers written Paul,

and what advice did he give them?

1 Cor. 7:1, 2.

NOTE.—"Paul's recommendation of mar-

riage as a protection against fornication has

been regarded by some as a low concept

of marriage. But such persons fail to note

that because of a particular situation in

Corinth, Paul dealt only with the negative

side of the matter. He does not say that he

offers here the only reason for marriage.

He does not deny the positive elements,

and the blessings that marriage provides

(see on Matt. 19:12). Neander says of this

passage: 'We must not overlook the fact

that Paul is here not treating of marriage

in general, but only in its relation to the

condition of things at Corinth, where he

feared the effect of moral prejudices con-

cerning celibacy' (Lange)."—S.D

.A. Bible

Commentary,

on 1 Cor. 7:2.

What responsibility should both

husband and wife recognize, and

under what circumstances only should

this responsibility temporarily be set

aside? 1 Cor. 7:3-5.

NOTE.—"In this verse the Greek offers

a variant reading which is important for

the interpretation. A.V. has: 'due benevo-

lence,' which respects the obligation of hus-

band and wife to each other. R.S.V. has

`her conjugal rights,' an expression clear

in itself. The second reading is undoubtedly

the right one. The apostle aims at disclaim-

ing the ascetic attitude as it was propagated

and practiced by some of the Corinthians

(cf. vs. 5). Paul reproves such an attitude.

Married people are supposed to live as

such, and each of them has the same rights

and the same obligations."—F. W. Gros-

heide,

Commentary on the First Epistle to

the Corinthians,

page 156 (copyright, 1953,

1960 printing).

"Those professing to be Christians . . .

should duly consider the result of every

privilege [NOTE: On another occasion Mrs.

White speaks of the "privacy and privileges

of the family relation." See

Testimonies,

Vol. 2, p.

90.—Compilers.]

of the marriage

relation, and sanctified principle should be

the basis of every action. . . .

"It is carrying that which is lawful to

excess that makes it a grievous sin."

The

Adventist Home,

page 122. Read

The Ad-

ventist Home

on "Marital Duties and Privi-

leges," pages 121-128.

How did Paul qualify the nature

of his advice? 1 Cor. 7:6, 7.

NOTE.—"Commandment

is the reverse

concession

(2 Cor. 8:9). Paul does not

command every man and every woman to

marry. His

concession

is not a reluctant

admission but a full approbation. Here

again it is a question of right. The Chris-

tian possesses the right to marry. Normal

conditions dictate that he should use this

right. Still it remains a right,

i.e.,

there may

be circumstances in which it is not nec-

essary to use it. That is the case in vs. 7.

There is here no question of a command-

ment without any exception."—F. W. Gros-

heide,

Commentary on First Epistle to the

Corinthians,

page 158.

Various Aspects of Marriage

Considered

What was Paul's counsel for the

unmarried and widows, and in the

light of what conviction is this coun-

sel to be understood? 1 Cor. 7:8, 9,

26, 29.

NOTE.—"Good" here is from the same

Greek word as in verse 1.

"Paul advises those who have undue

difficulty in keeping their sexual desires

under control, to marry rather than be

constantly subjected to the excitement of

unsatisfied desire. The instruction here is

plain and in harmony with the general tenor

of the preceding verses, namely, the pres-

ervation of purity and the best attitude

toward marriage (see vs. 2, 3, 5). Even

when all the problems associated with

married life during a period of persecution

[ 19 ]

and distress are taken into account (see

v. 26), it is better to marry than to be in-

wardly consumed with the mentally, emo-

tionally, and physically disturbing condition

of unsatisfied desire."—S.D

.A. Bible Com-

mentary,

on 1 Cor. 7:9.

What was Paul's counsel regard-

ing divorce and whom did he quote

as authority? 1 Cor. 7:10, 11. Com-

pare Matt. 19:6-9.

NoTa.—"Every marriage engagement

should be carefully considered, for mar-

riage is a step taken for life. Both the man

and the woman should carefully consider

whether they can cleave to each other

through the vicissitudes of life as long as

they both shall

live."—The Adventist

Home,

page 340.

"A woman may be legally divorced from

her husband by the laws of the land and

yet not divorced in the sight of God and

according to the higher law. There is only

one sin, which is adultery, which can place

the husband or wife in a position where

they can be free from the marriage vow

in the sight of

God."—Ibid.,

p. 344.

What was Paul's counsel to those

who had unbelieving spouses? 1 Cor.

7:12-16.

NoTE.—When Paul said "speak I, not the

Lord," he did not mean that he was speak-

ing without divine inspiration. He simply

meant that he could not refer to a specific

statement Jesus had made with reference

to the matter under consideration.

In the matter of mixed marriages, or

of marriages where one party had accepted

Christianity and the other had remained

a pagan, apparently the question had arisen

as to whether there was defilement in such

a relationship, and as to what was the

status of the children of such a union.

Verses 12 to 16 are an answer to these

queries. Such unions are not to be broken

by the Christian's taking the initiative,

and there is no problem so far as the legit-

imacy of the children is concerned.

Counsels Related to the Times

In view of the "present distress,"

what was Paul's counsel to those who

had never been married? 1 Cor. 7:

25-27.

NOTE.—In the absence of any specific

command given by Jesus, the apostle gives

his own inspired judgment.

"Paul was doubtless referring to the im-

minence of a time of great trouble and

perplexity for the Christian community."—

S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on 1 Cor. 7:26.

How did Paul amplify his state-

ment so as to make clear that he was

not categorically prohibiting mar-

riage? 1 Cor. 7:28.

What effect was the observation

that the "time is short" to have on

the believer's relationships? 1 Cor.

7:29-31.

NOTE.—"The

angels of God in their

messages to men represent time as very

short. Thus it has always been presented to

me. It is true that time has continued

longer than we expected in the early days

of this message. Our Saviour did not ap-

pear as soon as we hoped. But has the

word of the Lord failed? Never! It should

be remembered that the promises and

threatenings of God are alike conditional."

—Selected Messages,

Bk. 1, p. 67.

Problems of Marriage

10.

How did Paul contrast the pri-

mary interests of the married and the

unmarried? 1 Cor. 7:32-35.

11.

By what example did Paul fur-

ther show that marriage under certain

circumstances would be desirable?

1 Cor. 7:36-38.

20 ]

Nom—Commentators have been divided

as to whom the "he" in the clause "he

behaveth himself uncomely" refers. Some

believe it refers to the father of the virgin;

others to her fiancé. The passage may be

understood either way.

12.

In the case of remarriage, what

principle should be followed? 1 Cor.

7:39, 40, first part.

NoTE.—"It is only in Christ that a

marriage alliance can be safely formed.

Human love should draw its closest bonds

from divine love. Only where Christ reigns

can there be deep, true, unselfish affection."

—The Adventist Home,

page 68.

13.

Who guided Paul in his counsel

to the Corinthians regarding mar-

riage? 1 Cor. 7:40, last part.

NOTE.—"Have the Spirit.

There seems to

be a reference here to certain leaders in the

church at Corinth who believed they were

inspired. The apostle asserts his belief

that he, too, was under the inspiration of

the Holy Spirit. This statement is there-

fore a .claim that his letters are to be

received, not as the opinion of man, but

as the divinely ordained wisdom of the

living God. It was necessary that Paul

should clearly set forth his claim to divine

illumination. Thus only could he coun-

teract the instruction given by false teach-

ers at Corinth, and thus only could he lay

down regulations for the government of

the Corinthian believers that would fortify

them against the special temptations to

which they were exposed."—S.D.A.

Bible

Commentary,

on 1 Cor. 7:40.

Lesson 6, for February 5, 1966

Relationships Between Church Members

MEMORY VERSE:

"Give none offense, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles,

nor to the church of God." 1 Cor. 10:32.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 304-315; "S.D.A. Bible Com-

mentary."

STUDY AIM:

To derive from the Corinthians' experience and Paul's counsel to

them principles to govern relationships between church members.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbcith afternoon: General survey.

❑

Tuesday: Questions 6-9.

Sunday: Learn memory verse; Intro-

Wednesday: Questions 10-12.

duction; questions 1-3.

❑

Thursday: Read study helps.

Monday: Questions 4, 5; begin

Friday: Review entire lesson.

reading study helps.

[21

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The Problem of Foods Sacrificed

to Idols

The problem introduced. 1 Cor.

8:1, first part.

The wrong and right approach.

1 Cor. 8:1 (second part),

The "knowledge" possessed by

some. 1 Cor. 8:4-7, first part.

The weak conscience and the

exercise of liberty. 1 Cor. 8:7,

last part.

The safe course to pursue. 1 Cor.

8:9-13.

II. General Principles in Relationships

Between Members

The neighbor's good to be Chris-

tian's goal. 1 Cor. 10:24.

Application of this principle under

specific circumstances. 1 Cor.

10:25-30.

Generalization and enlargement of

principle. 1 Cor. 10:31, 32.

Paul's example in following the

principle. 1 Cor. 10:33; 11:1.

III. Going to Court Against Fellow

Members Forbidden

10.

The Corinthians' audacious course.

1 Cor. 6:1, 6.

11.

The impropriety of the Corin-

thians' course. 1 Cor. 6:2-5.

12.

The proper course. 1 Cor. 6:7, 8.

THE LESSON

Introduction

An important aspect of the Christian

life is the development of proper relation-

ships between fellow Christians. Many of

the problems of the Corinthian church

had their origin in immature attitudes and

improper relationships. There was on the

part of the "strong," who boasted in their

knowledge and liberty, a reckless disre-

gard for the "weak."

"The apostle, 'in the most decided and

impressive manner, endeavored to correct

the false and dangerous ideas and prac-

tices that were prevailing in the Co-

rinthian church. He spoke plainly, yet

in love for their souls. In his warnings

and reproofs, light from the throne of

God was shining upon them, to reveal

the hidden sins that were defiling their

lives."—The Acts of the Apostles,

page 321.

The Problem of Foods Sacrificed

to Idols

1. Concerning what other matter

had the Christians made inquiry?

1 Cor. 8:1, first part.

NoTE.—"Intimately connected with the

question of circumcision were several others

demanding careful study. One was the

problem as to what attitude should be

taken toward the use of meats offered to

idols. Many of the Gentile converts were

living among ignorant and superstitious

people who made frequent sacrifices and

offerings to idols. The priests of this

heathen worship carried on an extensive

merchandise with the offerings brought to

them, and the Jews feared that the Gentile

converts would bring Christianity into

disrepute by purchasing that which had

been offered to idols, thereby sanctioning,

in some measure, idolatrous customs."—

The Acts of the Apostles,

page 191.

2. What approach to the problem

had the Corinthians taken, and what

approach did Paul suggest? 1 Cor.

8:1 (second part), 2, 3.

Nom—The clause, "we all have knowl-

edge" may be quoted from the letter of

inquiry sent to Paul by the Corinthians.

By these words they may have attempted

to justify their course in eating foods

sacrificed to idols in spite of the •offense

such a course caused to the weaker breth-

ren, whom they despised as being scrupu-

lous. Paul condemns the purely intellectual

approach and appeals to love as the true

solution.

[22

3- What "knowledge" did some

Christians possess and others not?

1 Cor. 8:4-7, first part. Compare Hab.

2:18, 19; 1 Cor. 10:19.

NoTE.—The two phrases "an idol is

nothing in the world" and "there is none

other God but one" are doubtless quota-

tions from the Corinthians' letter. Paul

conceded the truth of these statements

and amplifies their meaning. The truth is

basic to Christian belief.

What effect had the eating of

foods sacrificed to idols had on the

Christian who did not have this

"knowledge"? 1 Cor. 8:7, last part.

NOTE.—"There were some among the

church members who could not regard food

that had been sacrificed to idols as ordi-

nary food, even though they no longer

believed in the existence of idols. As a

result of lifelong custom they could not

completely dissociate themselves from the

past. Partaking of such food placed them

vividly in their former setting, a situation

that was more than they could bear."—

S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on 1 Cor. 8:7.

In view of the danger of offend-

ing the weak brother, what course

did Paul commend and himself fol-

low? 1 Cor. 8:9-13.

NOTE.—"To lead anyone to do that

which

thinks to be wrong is to place a

stone of stumbling in his way, even if we

do not think the act to be wrong. For

we make men worse if by our example

we teach them to act in contradiction of

their conscience. 'Let your motto be

for-

bearance,

not

privilege,

and your watch-

word

charity,

not

knowledge.

Never flaunt

your knowledge, seldom use your privilege'

(Evans)."—The

Pulpit Commentary,

Vol.

19, p. 265, on 1 Cor. 8:9.

General Principles in Relationships

Between Members

What guiding principle did Paul

lay down for relationships between

members? 1 Cor. 10:24.

NOTE.—"The believer should not seek

first of all to gratify his own desires and

pleasures and conveniences; he ought to

consider first the welfare of others. Let

him ask himself the question, Will the

gratification of my own taste and inclina-

tions help or injure others? Many things

may be permissible, but their practice

might bring spiritual harm to others;

therefore it is the duty of the Christian

to abstain from them. In cases where

a certain thing is not positively forbidden

to a Christian, but where his example

would greatly influence others, he should

be guided in his behavior, not by his own

desires, comfort, or convenience, but by

consideration of the effect of his conduct

on others."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on 1 Cor. 10:24.

What other circumstances did

Paul cite as giving possible occasion

for offense, and what course did he

commend? 1 Cor. 10:25-30.

NoTE.—We should note that the problem

here is one of meats (Gr.

bromata,

"foods")

sacrificed to idols, not one of clean versus

unclean foods. The distinction between

clean and unclean meats antedated Sinai

(Gen. 7:8, 9), and was not abolished at

the cross. This passage cannot be used to

show that all foods are lawful for the

Christian. Such an interpretation violates

the context.

By what general principle should

the Christian guide his conduct?

1 Cor. 10:31, 32.

What had been Paul's conduct,

and as a result what appeal could

he make? 1 Cor. 10:33; 11:1.

[28]

NOTE.—Knowing the natural inclination

of men to imitate others, Paul was deeply

conscious of his need to set the right ex-

ample for his converts to follow. The

church in Corinth was young, and the

believers needed someone to show them

how to walk the new "way." A Christian

leader should follow Christ so closely that

he may confidently and safely invite others

to follow him.

Going to Court Against Fellow

Members Forbidden

10. What course deserving censure

had some of the Corinthian believers

followed? 1 Cor. 6:1, 6.

NOTE.—"Another grave evil that had

arisen in the church was that of brethren

going to law against one another. Abundant

provision had been made for the settle-

ment of difficulties among believers. Christ

Himself had given plain instruction as

to how such matters were to be adjusted.

`If thy brother shall trespass against thee,'

the Saviour had counseled, 'go and tell

him his fault between thee and him alone:

if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy

brother. But if he will not hear thee,

then take with thee one or two more,

that in the mouth of two or three witnesses

every word may be established. And if he

shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the

church: but if he neglect to hear the church,

let him be unto thee as a heathen man and

a publican.'

"—The Acts of the Apostles,

page 304.

11.

What consideration should

have led to a different procedure

when there was trouble between be-

lievers? 1 Cor. 6:2-5.

12.

Rather than resort to litigation

in public courts, what should the

believer have been willing to un-

dergo? 1 Cor. 6:7, 8.

NOTE.—"Christians should not appeal

to civil tribunals to settle differences that

may arise among church members. Such

differences should be settled among them-

selves, or by the church, in harmony

with Christ's instruction. Even though in-

justice may have been done, the follower

of the meek and lowly Jesus will suffer

himself `to be defrauded' rather than open

before the world the sins of his brethren

in the church.

"Lawsuits between brethren are

re-

proach to the cause of truth. Christians

who go to law with one another expose

the church to the ridicule of her enemies

and cause the powers of darkness to

triumph. They are wounding Christ afresh

and putting Him to open shame. By

ignoring the authority of the church, they

show contempt for God, who gave to the

church its authority."—The

Acts of the

Apostles,

pages 305, 306.

Lesson 7, For February 12, 1966

Profiting From Israel's Failure

MEMORY VERSE:

"Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and

they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are

come." 1 Cor. 10:11.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 315-318; "S.D.A. Bible Com-

mentary."

STUDY AIM:

To apply the lessons from Israel's failure in the Exodus movement

to spiritual Israel today.

[

243

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Sunday: Learn memory

verse;

Intro-

duction; questions 1-3.



❑

Monday: Questions 4-9.



❑

Check

Here

Tuesday: Questions 10-13.



❑

Wednesday:

Begin study helps.



❑

Thursday: Finish study helps.



❑

Friday: Review entire lesson.



❑

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Israel's Privileges

Safe passage through the sea.

1 Cor. 10:1.

Mosaic leadership. 1 Cor. 10:2.

Supernatural food and drink.

1 Cor. 10:3, 4.

II. Israel's Failure

Majority overthrown. 1 Cor. 10:5.

Israel's evil lusting a warning.

1 Cor. 10:6.

III. Specific Experiences Cited

Idolatrous revelry

at Sinai. 1 Cor.

10:7.

Fornication at Baalpeor. 1 Cor.

10:8.

Putting the Lord to the test.

1 Cor. 10:9.

Repeated grumbling. 1 Cor. 10:10.

IV. Instruction From Israel's Failure

10.

Instruction for our age. 1 Cor.

10:11.

11.

Warning for the overconfident.

1 Cor. 10:12.

12.

Encouragement for the tempted.

1 Cor. 10:13.

13.

Paul's severe self-discipline to

avoid failure. 1 Cor. 9:24-27.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"Paul pointed the Corinthians to the

experiences of ancient Israel, to the bless-

ings that rewarded their obedience, and to

the judgments that followed their trans-

gressions. He reminded them of the mirac-

ulous way in which the Hebrews were

led from Egpyt under the protection of

the cloud by day and the pillar of fire by

night. Thus they were safely conducted

through the Red Sea, while the Egyptians,

essaying to cross in like manner, were all

drowned. By these acts God had acknowl-

edged Israel as His church. They 'did

all eat the same spiritual meat ; and did

all drink the same spiritual drink: for

they drank of that spiritual Rock that

followed them: and that Rock was Christ.'

The Hebrews, in all their travels, had

Christ as a leader."-The

Acts of the

Apostles,

page 315.

Israel's Privileges

To what experiences of Israel

did Paul refer as an illustration?

1 Cor. 10:1.

NoTE.-Paul is drawing lessons from the

period of the Exodus. As the Israelites

passed through the sea and wandered

through the wilderness on their way to the

Promised Land, so Christians today are

on their way to the heavenly promised

land. The same dangers still threaten, but

Israel's failure stands as a perpetual warn-

ing.

How many of the Israelites had

experienced a form of "baptism"?

1 Cor. 10:2.

[ 25 ]

NoTE.—In preparation for his observa-

tion (verse 5) that the majority of the

Israelites never reached the Promised Land,

Paul is emphasizing the fact that all

crossed the sea, all were under the pillar

of cloud, all were in the same movement

together.

In what other privileges had all

shared? 1 Cor. 10:3, 4.

NOTE.—"Spiritual" is here used in the

sense of "supernatural," or "miraculous."

The gifts of God are a manifestation of

His Spirit. Reference is here to the manna

and to the drinking of water from the

rock.

Israel's Failure

Despite the advantages that had

been the lot of all those who left

Egypt, what had befallen the major-

ity and why? 1 Cor. 10:5.

NoTE.—It was not enough to belong to

the movement. The majority of those who

left Egypt never reached the Promised

Land. "And with whom was he provoked

forty years? Was it not with those who

sinned, whose bodies fell in the wilder-

ness?" (Heb. 3:17, R.S.V.)

What lesson may the Christian

learn from Israel's repeated lusting

after "evil" things? 1 Cor. 10:6. Com-

pare Ex. 16:3; Num. 11:4, 5, 34.

NOTE.—"He [Paul] showed how love of

ease and pleasure had prepared the way

for sins that called forth the signal ven-

geance of God. It was when the children

of Israel sat down to eat and drink, and

rose up to play, that they threw off the

fear of God, which they had felt as they

listened to the giving of the law; and,

making a golden calf to represent God,

they worshiped it. And it was after enjoy-

ing a luxurious feast connected with the

worship of Baalpeor, that many of the

Hebrews fell through licentiousness. The

anger of God was aroused, and at His

command 'three and twenty thousand' were

slain by the plague in one

day."—The Acts

of the Apostles,

page 316.

Specific Experiences Cited

Of what specific experience of

Israel did Paul first warn? 1 Cor. 10:7.

Compare Ex. 32:1-6.

NOTE.—"How often, in our own day,

is the love of pleasure disguised by a

`form of godliness'! A religion that per-

mits men, while observing the rites of

worship, to devote themselves to selfish or

sensual gratification, is as pleasing to the

multitudes now as in the days of Israel"—

Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 317.

To what incident did Paul next

refer by way of warning? 1 Cor. 10:8.

Compare Num. 25:1-5.

NOTE.—"At Balaam's suggestion,

grand

festival in honor of their gods was ap-

pointed by the king of Moab, and it was

secretly arranged that Balaam should in-

duce the Israelites to attend. He was

regarded by them as a prophet of God,

and hence had little difficulty in accom-

plishing his purpose. Great numbers of

the people joined him in witnessing the

festivities. They ventured upon the for-

bidden ground, and were entangled in the

snare of Satan. Beguiled with music and

dancing, and allured by the beauty of

heathen vestals, they cast off their fealty

to Jehovah. As they united in mirth and

feasting, indulgence in wine beclouded

their senses and broke down the barriers

of self-control. Passion had full sway; and

having defiled their consciences by lewd-

ness, they were persuaded to bow down to

idols. They offered sacrifice upon heathen

altars and participated

the most de-

grading

rites."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 454.

What lesson is

be learned

from the provocation that brought

the fiery serpents? 1 Cor. 10:9. Com-

pare Num. 21:4-6.

[26

]

NoTE.—"Again they failed to endure the

test of their faith and patience. By con-

tinually dwelling on the dark side of their

experiences, they separated themselves far-

ther and farther from God. They lost sight

of the fact that but for their murmuring

when the water ceased at Kadesh, they

would have been spared the journey around

Edom. God had purposed better things

for them. Their hearts should have been

filled with gratitude to Him that he had

punished their sin so lightly. But instead

of this, they flattered themselves that if

God and Moses had not interfered, they

might now have been in possession of the

Promised Land. After bringing trouble

upon themselves, making their lot alto-

gether harder than God designed, they

charged all their misfortunes upon Him.

Thus they cherished bitter thoughts con-

cerning His dealings with them, and finally

they became discontented with everything."

—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 428.

What persistent attitude of Israel

should the Christian avoid? 1 Cor.

10:10. Compare Num.

13:32,

33; 14:

1-4, 37; 16:1-3, 31-33, 41, 46-50.

NOTE.—"But God does not want any to

walk mournfully before Him. Those who

thus complain of God have brought their

adversity on themselves. They have robbed

God, and His cause has been hindered be-

cause the money that should have flowed

into His treasury was used for selfish

purposes."—Testimonies,

Vol. 6, p. 389.

Instruction From Israel's Failure

10.

For what purposes have Israel's

experiences been recorded and pre-

served? 1 Cor. 10:11.

NOTE.—"The folly of Israel in disobey-

ing God led to their downfall in the

wilderness, and later in their history, to

their being carried captive to Babylon

(see Jer. 17:23, 27; 25:4-11). The warn-

ing to Christians to learn the lesson of

Israel's wilderness experience is peculiarly

appropriate in the light of the near ap-

proach of the second advent of Christ.

Many of the Israelites perished when they

had almost completed the journey to

Canaan (see Num. 25:9). They were the

people whom God had specially favored

by giving them knowledge of His law and

of Himself beyond any knowledge pos-

sessed by any other people in the world,

yet they failed to maintain their loyalty

to Him. Christians, to whom has been

entrusted the gospel of Jesus Christ, and

the prophetic knowledge of His soon

coming, should beware lest they allow the

delusions of sinful human nature to cause

them to fail of reaching the heavenly

Canaan."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

1 Cor. 10:11.

11.

What lesson may be drawn

from Israel's repeated failures? 1 Cor.

10:12.

NOTE.—"Never can we safely put con-

fidence in self or feel, this side of heaven,

that we are secure against temptation,

Those who accept the Saviour, however

sincere their conversion, should never be

taught to say or to feel that they are

saved. This is misleading. Everyone should

be taught to cherish hope and faith ; but

even when we give ourselves to Christ

and know that He accepts us, we are not

beyond the reach of temptation. God's

Word declares, 'Many shall be purified,

and made white, and tried.' Dan. 12:10.

Only he who endures the trial will receive

the crown of

life."—Christ's Object Lessons,

page 155.

12.

In the face of the record of

human failure, what encouragement

is given? 1 Cor. 10:13.

NOTE.—"God has not left us to battle

with evil in our own finite strength. What-

ever may be our inherited or cultivated

tendencies to wrong, we can overcome

through the power that He is ready to

impart."—The

Ministry of Healing,

pages

175, 176.

13.

In order to win the imperish-

able prize, what severe self-discipline

did Paul exercise? 1 Cor. 9:24-27.

[ 27 ]

Lesson 8, for February 19, 1966

Spiritual Gifts

MEMORY VERSE:

"So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of

our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Cor. 1:7.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Great Controversy," Introduction, pages v-xii; "S.D.A. Bible

Commentary."

STUDY AIM:

To learn what the Bible has to say about the place and function of

spiritual gifts in the church.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD



Check Here



Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Tuesday: Questions 6-8.

Sunday: Learn memory verse; Intro-



Wednesday: Questions 9-11.



duction; questions 1-3.



❑



Thursday: Questions 12, 13; read

Monday: Questions 4, 5; read from



from study helps.

study helps.



❑



Friday: Review entire lesson.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Importance of Spiritual Gifts

Informed Christians. 1 Cor. 12:1.

Unity in variety. 1 Cor. 12:4-6.

All Christians recipients. 1 Cor.

12:7.

II. Varieties of Gifts

The gifts enumerated. 1 Cor. 12:

8-10.

The gifts distributed according to

will of Spirit. 1 Cor. 12:11.

III. The Church Compared to a Body

6. Believers constitute the members.

1 Cor. 12:12-14.

Variety of members needed.

1 Cor. 12:15-19.

No member to

be depreciated.

Cor. 12:20-27.

IV. The Gifts Evaluated

Enumerated in order of importance.

1 Cor. 12:28.

10.

Variety and distribution re-

emphasized. 1 Cor. 12:29, 30.

11.

Higher gifts to be desired. 1 Cor.

12:31.

12.

Prophecy the preferred gift.

1 Cor. 14:1.

13.

Prophecy superior to tongues.

1 Cor. 14:2-5.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"It would appear that the Corinthian

believers had asked a question concerning

the relative greatness of these gifts of the

Spirit, and that some of them had been

boasting that the gifts they had were

greater and more important than those

granted to other members (see 1 Cor. 12:

18-23). Paul took the opportunity thus

presented him, to give them instruction

in the subject of the work of the Spirit

in Christ's mystical body, His church.

The Holy Spirit of God has been in the

church from the beginning (see AA 37,

53 ; PP 593, 594 ; COL 218). Hence the

gifts of the Spirit

were not -confined to

NT times. This is evident from the fact

that many prophets existed in ancient

times. It is God's will and plan that His

church shall be empowered by gifts till

the end of time (Eph. 4:8, 11-13; AA 54,

55). The gifts are all from God; therefore

there can be no possible ground for the

human agent to boast over his fellows

because he has been favored of Heaven

as an instrument for the manifestation of

the power of God in a special way for the

benefit of the church as a whole."—S.D.A

Bible Commentary,

on 1 Cor. 12:1.

Importance of Spiritual Gifts

What motivated Paul to dis-

course on spiritual gifts? 1 Cor. 12:1.

NOTE.—It is possible that in their letter

the Corinthians bad asked for a clari-

fication of the subject of spiritual gifts.

Paul is not discussing here the general

work of the Holy Spirit in conversion

and Christian living, but the special gifts

imparted by the Holy Spirit, especially

prophecy and tongues. These gifts were

abundant in the Corinthian church. They

came "behind in no gift." 1 Cor. 1:7.

In the early days of Christianity, when

leadership was needed for the rapidly

multiplying church, the multitude of

spiritual gifts qualifying the members for

service were especially useful and hence

were more widely distributed. But they

have never been withdrawn.

Even though there are diver-

sities of gifts, wherein does unity lie?

1 Cor. 12:4-6.

NoTE.—It was important for Paul to

stress that God is the dispenser of all spiri-

tual gifts, because the Corinthians tended

to think less highly of some of them.

To how many are the gifts

given and for what purpose? 1 Cor.

12:7.

NOTE.—The gifts were given "to profit

withal," that is, "for the common good"

(R.S.V.). They were not given as a ground

of boasting or a means of engendering an

attitude of superiority.

Varieties of Gifts

Enumerate the various gifts

given by the Spirit. 1 Cor. 12:8-10.

NOTE.—"In modern usage, 'knowledge'

is the learning which we by use and effort

acquire; 'wisdom' is the insight which

gradually dawns upon us from thought

and experience. In the language of the

New Testament, the distinction between

the two words is not so clearly marked,

but 'wisdom' seems to belong more to the

human

spirit,

and 'knowledge' to the

in-

tellect.

The 'discourse of wisdom' would be

that which sets forth the truth of the

gospel persuasively to work conversion

(ch. ii. 6, 7) ; the 'discourse of knowledge'

would be that which enters into the spec-

ulative and theoretical elaboration of

systematic theology."—The

Pulpit Com-

mentary,

Vol. 19, pp. 397, 398, on 1 Cor.

12:8.

All who are saved have a measure of

faith. The "faith" to which the apostle

here refers is that trust in God that

brings special answers to prayer.

"The gifts of healing" represent the abil-

ity to heal by miracle, such as the apostles

exercised when they bade the sick to be

healed. This gift is to be distinguished from

healing through prayer, for all have the

privilege of requesting God to heal the sick

or of calling for the elders of the church

and having them pray for recovery.

"Working of miracles" refers to work-

ing of miracles in general, beyond those

or including those of healing.

"Prophecy" is the gift exercised by

God's special spokesmen, the prophets.

"Discerning of spirits" is the ability

to distinguish between genuine and pur-

ported, but false, divine messages.

"Tongues" is the gift discussed at length

in 1 Corinthians 14. There is insufficient

time in this lesson to study the gift in

detail. However, there is need for Chris-

tians to be guarded against satanic delu-

29 I

sions, especially in so-called "tongues"

manifestations. (For those who wish to

study further on "tongues" see

S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

Vol. 6, pp. 795; 796;

Testimonies,

Vol. 1, pp. 412, 414, 419.)

"Interpretation of tongues" is the gift

that enables its possessor to interpret the

message that comes through the exercise of

the gift of tongues.

According to whose will are the

gifts distributed? 1 Cor. 12:11.

The Church Compared to a Body

To what are the members of the

church compared? 1 Cor. 12:12-14.

How did Paul illustrate the need

for a variety of gifts? 1 Cor. 12:

15-19.

NOTE.—"In scenery and in paintings we

do not love monotony. A fair landscape

possesses almost infinite variety of tint

and form; that is not a painting which is

composed of one color, however brilliant.

The Church is enriched by the diversities

in condition, age, ability, of its members.

Yet though one member differ strikingly

from another, all are

equally

of the body

(ver. 15). We must not despair because we

are unlike some other Christians; if all

the members of the body were as even the

chief and most honored members, the sym-

metry, usefulness, and beauty of the body

would be greatly impaired (ver. 17). We

must not seek to occupy a place for which

we are not fitted. We are admitted to the

body of Christ by God, and

He places us

(ver. 18).

must not move; if we are

to be moved,

will move us. To choose

a place for ourselves would be to put

ourselves out of place."—The

Pulpit Com-

mentary,

Vol. 19, p. 412.

By what forceful illustration did

Paul show that no gift or its posses-

sor was to be depreciated? 1 Cor. 12:

20-27.

The Gifts Evaluated

In what order of importance did

Paul reenumerate the gifts? 1 Cor.

12:28.

NOTE.—The list of gifts in verses 8 to

10 is obviously not complete, or at least

not the only classification. In verse 28,

apostles and teachers are mentioned, the

former represented by the gift possessed

by the Twelve, the latter a gift of ex-

position, and the ability to make the

divine message understandable to others.

The "helps" were probably gifts such as

deacons possessed, and the "governments"

the gifts of administration.

10.

How did Paul reemphasize the

point that there are a variety of gifts,

and that these are distributed among

the members? 1 Cor. 12:29, 30.

11.

What was to be the believers'

attitude toward the gifts? 1 Cor.

12:31.

NoTE.—Apparently additional gifts could

be acquired and could be sought after.

12.

Of the various gifts, which was

to be preferred above the others?

1 Cor. 14:1. Compare 1 Thess. 5:20.

NoTE.—Because of the sensational char-

acter of the gift of tongues, the Corin-

thians tended to place undue esteem upon

this gift, and to depreciate the gift of

prophecy. Paul urges that prophecy be

sought above others.

13.

In what way was prophecy

superior to the gift of tongues? 1 Cor.

14:2-5.

[ 30 ]

Lesson 9, for February 26, 1966

Love, the More Excellent Way

MEMORY VERSE:

"And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the

greatest of these is charity." 1 Cor. 13:13.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 318, 319, 321; Ellen G. White

Comments, "S.D.A. Bible Commentary," Vol. 6, pp. 1090-1092; also on lesson

scriptures.

STUDY AIM:

To discover the true meaning of love in both its negative and

positive aspects.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Sunday: Learn memory verse; Intro-

duction; questions 1-4.



❑

Monday: Questions 5-7.



❑

Tuesday: Questions 8-10.

Wednesday: Questions 11-13.

Thursday: Read study helps.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Check Here

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The Excellence of Love

Love more excellent than the gifts.

1 Cor. 12:31.

Eloquence valueless without love.

1 Cor. 13:1.

Spiritual gifts valueless without

love. 1 Cor. 13:2.

Philanthropy and martyrdom

valueless without love. 1 Cor. 13:3

II. Love Defined

5. Love defined positively. 1 Cor.

13:4, first part.

Love defined negatively. 1 Cor.

13:4, last part.

Love further defined negatively.

1 Cor. 13:5.

Love's relationship to right and

wrong. 1 Cor. 13:6.

Further attributes of love. 1 Cor.

13:7.

III. The Permanence of Love

10.

Permanence contrasted with that of

spiritual gifts. 1 Cor. 13:8.

11.

Temporary nature of the gifts.

1 Cor. 13:9-11.

12.

Nature of future and present

knowledge contrasted. 1 Cor.

13:12.

13.

Love's preeminence. 1 Cor. 13:13.

THE LESSON

Introduction

The word translated "charity" in 1 Co-

rinthians is the Greek word

agape, which

in the K.J.V. is generally translated "love,"

and should be so translated there also.

"Agape

was formerly thought to be a

distinctly Christian term, for no example

of it in secular Greek sources had been

discovered. Now, however, several un-

questioned examples of its use outside of

early Christian literature have been found.

However, the paucity of such examples, and

the frequency of

agape

in Christian liter-

ature show that Christians especially

adopted this term to describe the higher

concept of love revealed in the gospel.

God is

agape

Jn 4:7, 8), and His love

and that of Christ for men is represented

by the term

agape

(Rom 5:8; Eph 2:4;

[ 31 ]

1 Jn 3:1; etc.).

Agape

also describes the

relation between God and Christ (Jn 15:

10; 17:26). It is used of human love

(Jn 3:35; Rom 12:9; etc.), and is listed

as a fruit of the Spirit, being the first of

the fruits mentioned (Gal 5:22). The

classic definition of

agape

is found in 1 Cor

13. After listing various spiritual gifts

and attainments (ch 12), the apostle notes

that love is the 'more excellent way' (v

31). Of the abiding qualities of faith,

hope, and love, he lists love as the greatest

(ch 13:13). In this and several other

passages the KJV translates

agape,

'char-

ity.' When the KJV was produced,

`charity' did not have the restricted mean-

ing it often has today, and because of its

use in this passage it has come to mean

`divine love,' love in its perfection!"—

S.D.A.

Bible Dictionary,

page 663.

The Excellence of Love

After having presented the place

and function of spiritual gifts in the

church, what did Paul proceed to

show? 1 Cor. 12:31.

What abilities did Paul present

as meaningless without love? 1 Cor.

13:1.

6. What is love declared not to

be? 1 Cor. 13:4, last part.

pronounces it altogether lighter than van-

ity."—Ellen G. White Comments,

S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

Vol. 6, p. 1091.

3. How did Paul express the fu-

tility of even the higher gifts of the

Spirit without love? 1 Cor. 13:2.

4. What self-sacrificing acts are

without profit unless love is present?

1 Cor. 13:3.

NOTE.—"No value is attached to a mere

profession of faith in Christ; only the

love which is shown by works is counted

genuine. Yet it is love alone which in the

sight of Heaven makes any act of value.

Whatever is done from love, however

small it may appear in the estimation of

men, is accepted and rewarded of God."—

The Great Controversy,

page 487.

Love Defined

5. Positively, what is love declared

to be? 1 Cor. 13:4, first part.

NOTE.—"It is not the ready speaker, the

sharp intellect, that counts with God. It

is the earnest purpose, the deep piety, the

love of truth, the fear of God, that has a

telling influence. A testimony from the

heart, coming from lips in which is no

guile, full of faith and humble trust, though

given by a stammering tongue, is accounted

of God as precious as gold; while the

smart speech, the eloquent oratory, of the

one to whom is entrusted large talents,

but who is wanting in truthfulness, in

steadfast purpose, in purity, in unselfish-

ness, are as sounding brass and

tinkling

cymbal. He may say witty things, he may

relate amusing anecdotes, he may play upon

the feelings; but the spirit of Jesus is not in

it. All these things may please unsancti-

fied hearts, but God holds in His hands

the balances that weigh the words, the

spirit, the sincerity, the devotion, and He

What other characteristics are

not a part of love? 1 Cor. 13:5.

NOTE.—"Love is an active principle; it

keeps the good of others continually before

us, thus restraining us from inconsiderate

actions lest we fail of our object in win-

ning souls to Christ. Love seeks not its

own. It will not prompt men to seek their

own ease and indulgence of self. It is the

respect we render to I that so often hinders

the growth of

love."—Testimonies,

Vol. 5,

p. 124.

What is love's relationship to

right and wrong? 1 Cor. 13:6.

[32]

NOTE.—"He whose heart is imbued with

love is filled with sorrow at the errors and

weaknesses of others; but when truth tri-

umphs, when the cloud that darkened the

fair fame of another is removed, or when

sins are confessed and wrongs corrected,

rejoices."—Testimonies,

Vol. 5, p. 169.

9. How far-reaching is love in its

endurance and trust? 1 Cor. 13:7.

NoTE.—"Love

not only

bears with

others' faults, but cheerfully submits to

whatever suffering or inconvenience such

forbearance makes necessary. This love

`never faileth.' It can never lose its value;

it is the attribute of heaven. As a precious

treasure it will be carried by its possessor

through the portals of the City of God."—

Testimonies,

Vol. 5, R. 169.

"The active virtues must be cultivated

as well as the passive. The Christian,

while he is ever ready to give the soft

answer that turneth away wrath, must

possess the courage of a hero to resist

evil. With the charity that endureth all

things, he must have the force of character

which will make his influence a positive

power for good."—Ibid., p. 404.

"Love is a plant of heavenly origin, and

if we would have it flourish in our hearts,

we must cultivate it daily. Mildness,

gentleness, long-suffering, not being easily

provoked, bearing all things, enduring all

things—these are the fruits upon the pre-

cious tree of love."—Ellen G. White Com-

ments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol. 6,

pp. 1091, 1092.

The Permanence of Love

10.

When contrasted with the gifts

of prophecy, tongues, and knowledge,

how enduring is love? 1 Cor. 13:8.

11.

Why will the gifts eventually

cease to be needed, and how did Paul

illustrate their temporary nature?

1 Cor. 13:9-11.

12.

What further contrast between

this present world and the next world

did Paul draw? 1 Cor. 13:12.

NOTE.—"The education begun here will

not be completed in this life; it will be

going forward throughout eternity, ever

progressing, never completed. Day by day

the wonderful works of God, the evidences

of His miraculous power in creating and

sustaining the universe, will open before

the mind in new beauty. In the light that

shines from the throne, mysteries will dis-

appear, and the soul will be filled with

astonishment at the simplicity of the things

that were never before comprehended."—

Testimonies,

Vol. 8, p. 328.

"There, when the veil that darkens our

vision shall be removed, and our eyes

shall behold that world of beauty of which

we now catch glimpses through the micro-

scope; when we look on the glories of the

heavens, now scanned afar through the

telescope; when, the blight of sin removed,

the whole earth shall appear in 'the beauty

of the Lord our God,' what a field will be

open to our study! There the student of

science may read the records of creation

and discern no reminders of the law of

evil. He may listen to the music of

nature's voices and detect no note of wail-

ing or undertone of sorrow. In all created

things he may trace one handwriting—in

the vast universe behold 'God's name writ

large,' and not in earth or sea or sky one

sign of ill remaining."—Education, page

303.

13.

How did Paul summarize his

discourse on love? 1 Cor. 13:13.

"If we would study the Bible

diligently and prayerfully

every day, we should every

day see some beautiful truth

in a new, clear, and forcible

light."—Counsels on Sabbath

School Work,

page 23.

C 33

Lesson 10, for March 5, 1966

The Hope of the Resurrection

MEMORY VERSE:

"Behold, I show you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we

shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last

trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible,

and we shall be changed." 1 Cor. 15:51, 52.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Great Controversy," pages 637-647 (1927 ed., pp. 719-729;

1950 ed., pp. 628-637); "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

STUDY AIM:

To review Paul's arguments for a resurrection and to discover the

importance of the doctrine of the resurrection to the outworking of the

divine plan.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Sunday: Learn memory verse;

Introduction; questions 1-3.



❑

Monday: Questions 4-8.



❑

Tuesday: Questions 9-11.

Wednesday: Questions 12-14.

Thursday: Read study helps.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Check Here

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The False Doctrine of "No Resur-

rection"

Some Corinthian believers denied

resurrection. 1 Cor. 15:12.

Necessary corollaries if these con-

tenders were right. 1 Cor. 15:14-18.

Christians' pitiable situation with-

out hope of resurrection. 1 Cor.

15:19.

II. The Christian Doctrine of the

Resurrection

Statement of doctrine. 1 Cor.

15:20-22.

Time of the resurrection. 1 Cor.

15:23.

Every enemy destroyed. 1 Cor.

15:24-28.

7. Faith in resurrection gives forti-

tude in affliction. 1 Cor. 15:30-32,

first part.

8. Danger of disbelief. 1 Cor. 15:32

(last part), 33, 34.

III. Nature of the Resurrection

9. Variously illustrated. 1 Cor. 15:

35-41.

10. Natural and resurrection bodies

contrasted. 1 Cor. 15:42-49.

11. A reason for change in bodies.

1 Cor. 15:50.

IV. Events Associated With the

Resurrection

12. Translation of living saints. 1 Cor.

15:51-53.

13. Victory of that moment. 1 Cor.

15:54, 55.

14. Victory centered in Christ.

1 Cor. 15:56, 57.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"In the lowering of the moral standard

among the Corinthian believers, there were

those who had given up some of the fun-

damental features of their faith. Some had

gone so far as to deny the doctrine of

the resurrection. Paul met this heresy

with a very plain testimony regarding

the unmistakable evidence of the resur-

[ 34

rection of Christ."—The

Acts of the Apos-

tles,

pages 319, 320.

"Thus far Paul has treated only those

abuses which prevailed in the whole Co-

rinthian church, either because he had

heard of them himself or because the

Corinthians had asked for information. In

chapter 15, however, Paul treats the resur-

rection of the body, of which he expressly

states (vs. 12) that the latter is denied

only by some among the Corinthians. Be-

sides, we have here the first error of a

doctrinal nature. According to vs. 12 this

was not a system of error but rather a

single contention, on one point only.

But nevertheless we are here in the realm

of doctrine."—F. W. Grosheide,

Commen-

tary on the First Epistle to the Corinthians,

pages 346, 347.

The False Doctrine of

"No Resurrection"

What were some of the Corin-

thian believers affirming? 1 Cor.

15:12.

If what they affirmed were true,

what else would also be true? 1 Cor.

15:14-18.

NOTE.—"If for four thousand years the

righteous had gone directly to heaven at

death, how could Paul have said that if

there is no resurrection, 'they also which

are fallen asleep in Christ are perished'?

No resurrection would be necessary."—The

Great Controversy,

pages 546, 547.

What would be the Christian's

condition if there were no hope of

life after death? 1 Cor. 15:19.

NOTE.—"It should be noted that Paul

is not here suggesting that piety and con-

formity to the revealed will of God in

this life are not accompanied by happiness.

The believer has cause to be happier than

other men, but if the resurrection is a

delusion, then Christians are more deserv-

ing of pity than any other people. No

others have had such high hopes of enjoy-

ing eternity, so no others could experience

so deep disappointment if those hopes are

destroyed by disproving the resurrection."

—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

on 1 Cor.

15:19.

The Christian Doctrine

of the Resurrection

In what positive way did Paul

affirm the Christian's faith in the

resurrection of Christ and of man?

1 Cor. 15:20-22.

NOTE.—"The resurrection of Jesus was

a sample of the final resurrection of all

who sleep in Him. The risen body of the

Saviour, His deportment, the accents of

His speech, were all familiar to His fol-

lowers. In like manner will those who

sleep in Jesus rise again. We shall know

our friends even as the disciples knew

Jesus. Though they may have been de-

formed, diseased, or disfigured in this mor-

tal life, yet in their resurrected and glorified

body their individual identity will be

perfectly preserved, and we shall recognize,

in the face radiant with the light shining

from the face of Jesus, the lineaments of

those we love."—Ellen G. White Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol. 6, p. 1092.

At what point in time will the

resurrection of the true believers

occur? 1 Cor. 15:23.

NOTE.—"The voice that cried from the

cross, 'It is finished,' was heard among

the dead. It pierced the walls of sepulchers,

and summoned the sleepers to arise. Thus

will it be when the voice of Christ shall

be heard from heaven. That voice will

penetrate the graves and unbar the tombs,

and the dead in Christ shall arise. At the

Saviour's resurrection a few graves were

opened, but at His second coming all the

precious dead shall hear His voice, and

shall come forth to glorious, immortal life.

The same power that raised Christ from the

dead will raise His church, and glorify it

with Him, above all principalities, above

[35]

all powers, above every name that is

named, not only in this world, but also

in the world to come."—The

Desire of

Ages,

page 787.

In the establishment of the final

kingdom under God the Father, what

is the last enemy to be destroyed?

1 Cor. 15:24-28.

What hope made Paul willing

to risk all for Christ? 1 Cor. 15:30-

32, first part.

NorE.—"I die daily:

the sense is not

that Paul is every day in danger of life,

for that had been said in vs. 30. Paul

wishes to indicate that so far as he is

concerned he abandons life daily; he knows

that he may die, and so he continually

prepares himself for death. If he, in order

to do his work, has to meet with mortal

danger, he does not hesitate (Acts

25:11)."

F. W. Grosheide,

Commentary on the First

Epistle to the Corinthians,

page 374.

What dangerous philosophy may

develop from disbelief in the resur-

rection, and what strong warning

did Paul give? 1 Cor. 15:32 (last

part), 33, 34.

Nature of the Resurrection

By what illustrations did Paul

show that the resurrected body will

be different from the earthly body?

1 Cor. 15:35-41.

NorE.—"Our personal identity is pre-

served in the resurrection, though not the

same particles of matter or material sub-

stance as went into the grave. The won-

drous works of God are a mystery to

man. The spirit, the character of man, is

returned to God, there to be preserved.

In the resurrection every man will have

his own character. God in His own time

will call forth the dead, giving again the

breath of life, and bidding the dry bones

live. The same form will come forth, but

it will be free from disease and every de-

fect. It lives again bearing the same in-

dividuality of features, so that friend will

recognize friend. There is no law of God

in nature which shows that God gives

back the same identical particles of matter

which composed the body before death.

God shall give the righteous dead a body

that will please Him."—Ellen G. White

Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol.

6, p. 1093.

10.

How did Paul further contrast

the two bodies? 1 Cor. 15:42-49.

NorE.—"The mortal, corruptible form

devoid of comeliness, once polluted with

sin, becomes perfect, beautiful, and im-

mortal. All blemishes and deformities are

left in the grave. Restored to the tree of

life in the long-lost Eden, the redeemed

will 'grow up' (Malachi 4:2) to the full

stature of the race in its primeval glory.

The last lingering traces of the curse of

sin will be removed, and Christ's faithful

ones will appear in 'the beauty of the

Lord our God,' in mind and soul and

body reflecting the perfect image of their

Lord."—The

Great Controversy,

page 645.

11.

Why is it necessary for the

present body to be changed? 1 Cor.

15:50.

NorE.—"Paul illustrates this subject by

the kernel of grain sown in the field. The

planted kernel decays, but there comes

forth a new kernel. The natural substance

in the grain that decays is never raised

as before, but God giveth it a body as it

hath pleased Him. A much finer material

will compose the human body, for it is

a new creation, a new birth. It is sown

a natural body, it is raised a spiritual

body."—Ellen G. White Comments,

S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

Vol. 6, p. 1093.

[ 36

]

Events Associated With

the Resurrection

12. What will be the experience

of Christians who are alive when

Jesus conies? 1 Cor. 15:51-53.

NOTE.—"The living righteous are changed

'in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye.'

At the voice of God they were glorified;

now they are made immortal and with the

risen saints are caught up to meet their

Lord in the air. Angels 'gather together

His elect from the four winds, from one

end of heaven to the other.' Little children

are borne by holy angels to their mothers'

arms. Friends long separated by death are

united, nevermore to part, and with songs

of gladness ascend together to the City of

God."—The

Great Controversy,

page 645.

13.

What scripture will be fulfilled

at that glorious moment? 1 Cor. 15:

54, 55.

NoTE.—"There stands the risen host. The

last thought was of death and its pangs.

The last thoughts they had were of the

grave and the tomb, but now they pro-

claim, '0 death, where is thy sting?' . . .

"Here they stand, and the finishing touch

of immortality is put upon them, and they

go up to meet their Lord in the air. The

gates of the City of God swing back upon

their hinges, and the nations that have

kept the truth enter in."—Ellen G. White

Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol.

6, p. 1093.

14.

In whom does the Christian's

victory center? 1 Cor. 15:56, 57.

Lesson 11, for March 12, 1966

Fortitude in Affliction

MEMORY VERSE:

"For our light affliction, which is but

for a moment, worketh

for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory." 2 Cor. 4:17.

STUDY HELPS:

"Education,"

pages 154-158; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

STUDY AIM: To develop from Paul's discussion of various aspects of human

suffering a mature Christian philosophy of suffering.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon:

General survey.

❑

Sunday: Learn memory

verse;

Introduction;

questions 1-3.



❑

Monday: Questions 4-6.



❑

Tuesday: Questions 7-10.

Wednesday: Questions 11-13.

Thursday: Read study helps.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Check Here

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Blessing in Affliction

1. Comfort in affliction. 2 Cor 1:3,

4, first part.

Comfort shared. 2 Cor. 1:4

(second part), 5.

Paul's selfless ministry. 2 Cor.

1:6, 7.

II. Affliction in Asia

Intense nature of affliction. 2 Cor.

1:8.

371

5. Teaching value of affliction.

2 Cor. 1:9, 10.

6. Prayer for the afflicted. 2 Cor.1:11.

III. Triumph in Affliction

7. Courage in affliction. 2 Cor.

4:8-11.

8. Hope of resurrection braces for

trial. 2 Cor. 4:14, 15; 5:1.

9. Inward victory despite outward

affliction. 2 Cor. 4:16.

10.

Hope of ultimate reward tempers

trial. 2 Cor. 4:17, 18.

IV. Paul's Bodily Affliction

11.

Purpose of Paul's bodily affliction.

2 Cor.

12:7.

12.

Request for healing denied.

2 Cor. 12:8, 9, first part.

13.

Mature Christian attitude toward

suffering. 2 Cor. 12:9 (last part),

10.

THE LESSON

trouble. It includes all that a loving heav-

enly Father can do for His earthborn chil-

dren. See on Matt. 5:4. To the Christian,

tribulation plays an important role in the

perfection of chalicter (cf. Heb. 2:10). By

themselves, suffering and tribulation have

no power to make men Christlike. In fact,

they make many men morose and bitter.

But God sanctifies tribulation, and those

who find in Him grace and strength to en-

dure have solved one of the great problems

of life."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on 2

Cor. 1:4.

Introduction

"The mysterious providence which per-

mits the righteous to suffer persecution at

the hand of the wicked has been a cause

of great perplexity to many who are weak

in faith. Some are even ready to cast away

their confidence in God because He suffers

the basest of men to prosper, while the

best and purest are afflicted and tormented

by their cruel power. How, it is asked,

can One who is just and merciful, and

who is also infinite in power, tolerate such

injustice and oppression? This is a ques-

tion with which we have nothing to do.

God has given us sufficient evidence of

His love, and we are not to doubt His

goodness because we cannot understand

the workings of His providence. Said the

Saviour to His disciples, foreseeing the

doubts that would press upon their souls

in days of trial and darkness: 'Remember

the word that I said unto you, The servant

is not greater than his lord. If they have

persecuted Me, they will also persecute

you.' John 15:20. Jesus suffered for us

more than any of His followers can be

made to suffer through the cruelty of

wicked men. Those who are called to en-

dure torture and martyrdom are but fol-

lowing in the steps of God's dear Son."—

The Great Controversy,

page 47.

Blessing in Affliction

1. In his afflictions, what blessing

from God did Paul experience? 2 Cor.

1:3, 4, first part.

NOTE.—"More is included in this term

than mere consolation in sorrow or in

What did this blessing from God

enable Paul to do for others? 2 Cor.

1:4 (second part), 5.

NOTE.—"The apostle Paul thanked God

for the comfort given him in sorrow, say-

ing: 'Blessed be . . . the God of all comfort;

who comforteth us in all our tribulation,

that we may be able to comfort them

which are in any trouble, by the comfort

wherewith we ourselves are comforted of

God.' As Paul felt the comfort and warmth

of God's love breaking into his soul, he

reflected the blessing upon others. Let

us so order our conduct that the pictures

hung upon the walls of our memory may

not be of such a character that we can-

not endure to reflect upon

them."—Testi-

monies,

Vol. 5, p. 489.

How selflessly was Paul devoted

to the service of others? 2 Cor. 1:

6, 7.

NOTE.—"Not for the wages we receive

are we to labor. The motive that prompts

L 38

us to work for God should have in it

nothing akin to self-serving. Unselfish de-

votion and a spirit of sacrifice have always

been and always will be the first requisite

of acceptable service. Our Lord and

Master designs that not one thread of

selfishness shall be woven into His work.

Into our efforts we are to bring the tact

and skill, the exactitude and wisdom, that

the God of perfection required of the

builders of the earthly tabernacle; yet in

all our labors we are to remember that

the greatest talents or the most splendid

services are acceptable only when self is

laid upon the altar, a living, consuming

sacrifice."—Prophets

and Kings,

page 65.

Affliction in Asia

To what particular affliction did

Paul call the Corinthians' attention?

2 Cor. 1:8. Compare 1 Cor. 15:32.

Nom—The affliction here referred to

has not been clearly identified. It may

have been some severe mental struggle,

caused in part, at least, by the conditions

in the Corinthian church. Fighting with the

beasts at Ephesus (1 Cor. 15:32) is gen-

erally regarded as a figurative expression,

probably describing this same severe men-

tal conflict.

What valuable lesson did Paul

learn from this experience? 2 Cor.

1:9, 10.

In view of his affliction what did

Paul ask the Corinthians to do? 2 Cor.

1:11.

Triumph in Affliction

Instead of losing heart over his

affliction, what triumphant experience

had Paul gained? 2 Cor. 4:8-11.

NOTE.—"As you review the past with a

clear vision, you will see that at the very

time when life seemed to you only a per-

plexity and a burden, Jesus Himself was

near you, seeking to lead you into the

light. Your Father was by your side, bend-

ing over you with unutterable love, afflict-

ing you for your good, as the refiner

purifies the precious ore. When you have

thought yourself forsaken, He has been

near you to comfort and sustain. We

seldom view Jesus as He is, and are never

so ready to receive His help as He is to

help

us."—Testimonies,

Vol. 4, pp. 220,

221.

What hope enabled Paul to face

even death courageously? 2 Cor. 4:

14, 15; 5:1.

In spite of outward affliction,

what may be the Christian's experi-

ence within? 2 Cor. 4:16.

10.

The recognition of what con-

trast should lead the Christian toward

a mature attitude toward suffering?

2 Cor. 4:17, 18. Compare Rom. 8:18.

NOTE.—"If Paul, troubled on every side,

perplexed, persecuted, could call his trials

light afflictions, of what has the Christian

of today to complain? How trifling are our

trials in comparison with Paul's many af-

flictions! They are not worthy to be

compared with the eternal weight of glory

awaiting the overcomer. They are God's

workmen, ordained for the perfection of

character. However great the deprivation

and suffering of the Christian, however

dark and inscrutable may seem the way

of Providence, he is to rejoice in the

Lord, knowing that all is working for his

good. . . .

"The years of self-denial, of privation, of

trial, affliction, and persecution that Paul

endured, he called a moment. The things

of the present time were not considered

worth mentioning when compared with

the eternal weight of glory that awaited

them when the warfare should be over.

These very afflictions were God's work-

men, ordained for the perfection of

Christian character. Whatever may be

the circumstances of the Christian, how-

[ 39 ]

ever dark and mysterious may be the ways

of Providence, however great his depri-

vation and suffering, he may look away

from them all to the unseen and the

eternal."—Ellen G. White Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol. 6, p. 1099.

Paul's Bodily Affliction

11.

What purpose did Paul recog-

nize in a particular bodily affliction?

2 Cor. 12:7.

NOTE.—"Paul had

bodily affliction;

his eyesight was bad. He thought that

by earnest prayer the difficulty might be

removed. But the Lord had His own

purpose, and He said to Paul, Speak to Me

no more of this matter. My grace is

sufficient. It will enable you to bear the

infirmity."—Ellen G. White Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol. 6, p. 1107.

12.

When Paul sought release from

this affliction, what answer came to

him? 2 Cor. 12:8, 9. first part.

Nora.—"A deep sadness still rested upon

the mind and heart of Paul because of

his apprehensions concerning the Corin-

thian church. While at Philippi he com-

menced his second epistle to them, for

they hung as a heavy weight upon his

soul. The depression of spirits from which

the apostle suffered was, however, at-

tributable in a great degree to bodily

infirmities, which made him very restless

when not engaged in active service. But

when working for the salvation of souls,

he rose superior to physical debility. He

felt that the disease under which he suf-

fered was a terrible impediment to him

in his great work, and repeatedly besought

the Lord to relieve him. God did not see

fit to answer his prayers in this respect,

though He gave him assurance that divine

grace should be sufficient for him."—Ellen

G. White Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Com-

mentary,

Vol. 6, p. 1107.

13.

What victorious attitude

toward suffering did this experience

lead him to take? 2 Cor. 12:9 (last

part), 10.

Lesson 12, for March 19, 1966

Christian Liberality

MEMORY VERSE:

"For

ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though

He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty

might be rich." 2 Cor. 8:9.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 335-345; "S.D.A. Bible Com-

mentary."

STUDY AIM:

To derive from the apostle's discussion of his fund-raising campaign

in Macedonia and Achaia principles of true Christian liberality.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Sunday: Learn memory verse;

Introduction; questions 1, 2.

Monday: Questions 3-5.

Tuesday: Questions 6-10.

Wednesday: Questions 11-13.

Thursday: Read study helps.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Check Here

40 ]

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The Liberality of the Macedonians

Their gift to the relief of the

saints at Jerusalem. 2 Cor. 8:1-4.

Their gift of themselves. 2 Cor.

8:5.

II. Appeal to the Corinthians

The appeal to abound in liberality.

2 Cor. 8:7.

Christ the supreme example of

liberality. 2 Cor. 8:8, 9.

Appeal for completion of fund

gathering. 2 Cor. 8:10, 11.

III. Principles of Giving

Gifts to be proportionate to donor's

ability to contribute. 2 Cor. 8:12.

Equality in mutual relief. 2 Cor.

8:13-15.

The power of example. 2 Cor.

9:1, 2.

Proper organization and execution

of campaign. 2 Cor. 9:3-5.

10.

Reaping in proportion to the

sowing. 2 Cor. 9:6.

IV. Rewards of Liberality

11.

Abundance. 2 Cor. 9:7-9.

12.

Enrichment. 2 Cor. 9:10, 11.

13.

Multiplied benefits. 2 Cor. 9:12-15.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"According to Gal. 2:10 Paul promised

at Jerusalem to take care of the poor

(see also Rom. 15:26; 2 Cor. 8 and 9).

It appears that the church at Jerusalem

was very poor so that even the Macedo-

nian churches, which were not rich them-

selves, had to collect money for Jerusalem.

. . . It should be kept in- mind that a

collection for the poor was not quite

what our notion of it is today. It was

also a collection for the maintenance of

the church, for the care of the poor was

an essential task the church had to perform.

The church itself did not need much

money; the poor needed much more."-

F. W. Grosheide,

Commentary on the First

Epistle to the Corinthians,

page 397.

The Liberality of the Macedonians

1. In view of the poverty of the

Christians at Jerusalem, what had the

believers in Macedonia. done? 2 Cor.

8:1-4.

NOTE.

-"There

had been a famine at

Jerusalem, and Paul knew that many of

the Christians had been scattered abroad

and that those who remained would be

likely to be deprived of human sympathy

and exposed to religious enmity. There-

fore he exhorted the churches to send

pecuniary assistance to their brethren in

Jerusalem. The amount raised by the

churches exceeded the expectation of the

apostles. Constrained by the love of Christ,

the believers gave liberally, and they were

filled with joy because they should thus

express their gratitude to the Redeemer

and their love for the brethren. This is

the true basis of charity according to God's

Word."-Testimonies,

Vol. 6, pp. 271, 272.

2. What experience preceded their

gracious liberality? 2 Cor. 8:5.

NOTE.

-"The

willingness to sacrifice on

the part of the Macedonian believers came

as a result of wholehearted consecration.

Moved by the Spirit of God, they 'first

gave their own selves to the Lord' (2 Co-

rinthians 8:5), then they were willing to

give freely of their means for the support

of the gospel. It was not necessary to urge

them to give; rather, they rejoiced in the

privilege of denying themselves even of

necessary things in order to supply the

needs of others. When the apostle would

have restrained them, they importuned

him to accept their offering. In their sim-

plicity and integrity, and in their love

for the brethren, they gladly denied self,

and thus abounded in the fruit of benevo-

lence."-The

Acts of the Apostles,

pages

343, 344.

[ 41

Appeal to the Corinthians

On what basis did Paul appeal

to the Corinthian believers to abound

in their liberality? 2 Cor. 8:7.

NOTE.—"Here benevolence is placed by

the side of faith, love, and Christian

diligence. Those who think that they

can be good Christians and close their

ears and hearts to the calls of God for

their liberalities, are in a fearful decep-

tion. There are those who abound in

professions of great love for the truth, and,

so far as words are concerned, have an

interest to see the truth advance, but

who do nothing for its advancement. The

faith of such is dead, not being made per-

fect by works. The Lord never made such

a mistake as to convert a soul and leave it

under the power of covetousness."—Testi-

monies,

Vol. 3, p. 393.

To what supreme example of

liberality did Paul direct the believ-

ers' attention? 2 Cor. 8:8, 9.

NoTE.—"Here was the apostle's mighty

argument. It is not the commandment

of Paul, but of the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Son of God had left His heavenly

home, with its riches and honor and glory,

and lothed His divinity with humanity—

not to live in the palaces of kings, without

care or labor, and to be supplied with all

the conveniences which human nature

r_•-.turally craves. In the councils of heaven

He had chosen to stand in the ranks of

the poor and oppressed, to take His part

with the humble workers."—Ellen G. White

Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol.

6, pp. 1103, 1104.

How long a period had elasped

since the Corinthians had begun their

collection, and what appeal did Paul

now make? 2 Co.:. 8:10, 11.

NoTE.—"Paul's cc unsel was that they

should no longer delay completing what

they had begun a year before. It was

desirable for their own sake that they

should not do so. To delay would be

detrimental to their own Christian ex-

perience, and would leave them open to

criticism. A vow made to God cannot be

repudiated without involving a man's

Christian integrity (Eccl. 5:4,

5)."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on 2 Cor. 8:10.

Principles of Giving

On what basis is a man's gift

evaluated? 2 Cor. 8:12.

NOTE.—"All should do something. The

case of the widow who cast in her two

mites is placed upon record for the bene-

fit of others. Christ commended her for

the sacrifice she made and called the at-

tention of His disciples to the act. . . .

Christ esteemed her gift more valuable than •

the large offerings of the most wealthy.

They gave of their abundance. They would

not feel the least privation because of

their offerings. But the widow had de-

prived herself of even the necessaries of

life to make her little offering. She could

not see how her future wants were to be

supplied. She had no husband to support

her in want. She trusted God for the

morrow. The

value of the gift is not

estimated so much by the amount that is

given as by the proportion and by the

motive which prompts the

gift."—Testi-

monies,

Vol. 2, pp. 666, 667.

On the basis of what principle

should the Corinthians now be ready

to contribute liberally? 2 Cor. 8:

13-15.

NOTE.—"Those who are selfishly with-

holding their means need not be surprised

if God's hand scatters. That which should

have been devoted to the advancement

of the work and cause of God, but which

has been withheld, may be entrusted to

a reckless son, and he may squander it.

A fine horse, the pride of a vain heart,

may be found dead in the stable. Occasion-

ally a cow may die. Losses of fruit or

other crops may come. God can scatter

the means He has lent to His stewards,

if they refuse to use it to His glory. Some,

I sari, may have none of these losses 'to

[ 42 ]

remind them of their remissness in duty,

but their cases may be the more hopeless."

—Testimonies,

Vol. 2, pp. 661, 662.

What effect had the Corinthians'

zeal in fund raising had on others?

2 Cor. 9:1, 2.

NOTE.—"When a people have an earnest

longing to help where help is needed in

advancing the cause of God in any line,

the Lord will impart to these consecrated,

unselfish ones a heart to give gladly, as

if it was a privilege. God moved on these

Macedonians in their deep poverty to

bestow liberally that their example might

be recorded, thus leading others to ex-

ercise the same beneficence."—Ellen G.

White Comments,

S.D A. ' Commentary,

Vol. 6, pp. 1102, 1103.

In spite of the Corinthians'

earlier commitment, what precautions

did Paul take? 2 Cor. 9:3-5.

10.

What principle operates when

men make contributions to a good

cause? 2 Cor. 9:6.

Nom.—"There are many who urge that

they cannot do more for God's cause than

they now do; but they do not give accord-

ing to their ability. The Lord sometimes

opens the eyes blinded by selfishness by

simply reducing their income to the amount

they are willing to

give."—Testimonies,

Vol,

4, p. 484.

Rewards of Liberality

11.

What spirit in the giver is

commended? 2 Cor. 9:7-9.

NOTE.—"It were better not to give

all than to give grudgingly; for if we im-

part of our means when we have not the

spirit to give freely, we mock God. Let

us bear in mind that we are dealing with

One upon whom we depend for every

blessing, One who reads every thought of

the heart, every purpose of the mind."—

Ellen G. White Comments,

S.D.A. Bible

Commentary,

Vol. 6, p. 1105.

12.

How does God respond to

liberal gifts? 2 Cor. 9:10, 11.

13.

What were some of the benefits

that would accrue from the Corin-

thians' gifts? 2 Cor. 9:12-15.

Lesson 13, for March 26, 1966

Concluding Admonitions

MEMORY VERSE:

"Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be

of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with

you." 2 Cor. 13:11.

STUDY HELP:

"S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

STUDY AIM:

To derive important principles of Christian living from Paul's con-

cluding admonitions in his two letters to the Corinthians.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Tuesday: Questions 7-9.

Sunday: Learn memory verse; Intro-

Wednesday: Questions 10-12.

duction; questions 1-3.

❑

Thursday: Read study helps.

Monday: Questions 4-6.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

[ 43 ]

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Farewell Admonitions in

1 Corinthians

1. Exhortation to steadfastness.

1 Cor. 16:13.

2. Love the motivation of Christian

conduct. 1 Cor. 16:14.

3. A unique closing greeting. 1 Cor.

16:22, last part.

II. Farewell Admonitions in

2 Corinthians

4. Self-examination enjoined.

2 Cor. 13:5.

Christians to do right for right's

sake. 2 Cor. 13:6, 7.

The triumph of right. 2 Cor. 13:8.

Improvement in Corinthians' ex-

perience expected. 2 Cor. 13:9, 10.

Closing admonitions. 2 Cor. 13:11,

first part.

III. Closing Greetings and Benediction

9. Prayer for God's presence. 2 Cor.

13:11, last part.

10, Greetings with a holy kiss.

2 Cor. 13:12.

11.

Greetings from the saints. 2 Cor.

13:13.

12.

Final benediction. 2 Cor. 13:14.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"His heart was filled with an earnest love

for the Corinthian believers. He longed to

see them revealing an inward piety that

would fortify them against temptation. He

knew that at every step in the Christian

pathway they would be opposed by the

synagogue of Satan and that they would

have to engage in conflicts daily. They

would have to guard against the stealthy

approach of the enemy, forcing back old

habits and natural inclinations, and ever

watching unto prayer. Paul knew that

the higher Christian attainments can be

reached only through much prayer and

constant watchfulness, and this he tried

to instill into their minds. But he knew

also that in Christ crucified they were of-

fered power sufficient to convert the soul

and divinely adapted to enable them to

resist all temptations to evil. With faith

in God as their armor, and with His Word

as their weapon of warfare, they would

be supplied with an inner power that

would enable them to turn aside the at-

tacks of the enemy."—The

Acts of the

Apostles,

page 307.

Farewell Admonitions in

1 Corinthians

1. When bringing 1 Corinthians

to a conclusion, what admonition to

a steadfast Christian experience did

Paul give the believers? 1 Cor. 16:13.

NOTE.—"They should be taught that this

world is not a parade ground, but a battle-

field. All are called to endure hardness, as

good soldiers. They are to be strong and

quit themselves like men. Let them be

taught that the true test of character is

found in the willingness to bear burdens,

to take the hard place, to do the work that

needs to be done, though it bring no

earthly recognition or

reward."—Educa-

tion,

page 295.

2. On the basis of what principle

were all things to be done? 1 Cor.

16:14.

NOTE.—"God's law is fulfilled only as

men love Him with heart, mind, soul, and

strength, and their neighbor as themselves.

It is the manifestation of this love that

brings glory to God in the highest, and on

earth peace and goodwill to men. The

Lord is glorified when the great end of His

law is attained. It is the work of the

Holy Spirit from age to age to impart love

to human hearts, for love is the living

principle of brotherhood." —

Testimonies,

Vol. 8, p. 139.

441

What significant, term did Paul

use in his conclusion to his letter?

1 Cor. 16:22, last part.

NoTE.--Maran-atha is the transliteration

of an Aramaic word meaning, in this con-

text, "Our Lord cometh," or "0, our Lord,

come." It is an obvious reference to the

second coming of Christ and may have

been a Christian watchword in common

use in Paul's day.

Farewell Admonitions in

2 Corinthians

In concluding his next letter,

what did Paul ask the Corinthian

believers to do? 2 Cor. 13:5.

NoTE.—"Those who have no time to give

attention. to their own souls, to examine

themselves daily whether they be in the

love of God, and place themselves in the

channel of light, will have time to give to

the suggestions of Satan, and the working

out of his plans.

"Satan will insinuate himself by little

wedges, that widen as they make a place

for themselves. The specious devices of

Satan will be brought into the special work

of God at this time."—Ellen G. White

Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol.

6, p. 1107.

Despite what circumstances

should the Christian do what is

right? 2 Cor. 13:6, 7.

NOTE.—"Whatever may be their profes-

sion, it is only those who are world servers

at heart that act from policy rather than

principle in religious things. We should

choose the right because it is right, and

leave consequences with God. To men of

principle, faith, and daring, the world is

indebted for its great reforms. By such

men the work of reform for this time

must be carried forward."—The

Great Con-

troversy,

page 460.

What relationship exists be-

tween the believers' conduct and the

truth? 2 Cor. 13:8.

What unselfish concern did Paul

have for the Corinthians' spiritual

welfare? 2 Cor. 13:9, 10.

NOTE. "Jesus said, Be perfect as

your

Father

is perfect. If you are the children

of God you are partakers of His nature,

and you cannot but be like Him. Every

child lives by the life of his father. If you

are God's children, begotten by His Spirit,

you live by the life of God. In Christ

dwells 'all the fullness of the Godhead

bodily' (Colossians 2:9) ; and the life of

Jesus is made manifest 'in our mortal flesh'

(2 Corinthians 4:11). That life in you

will produce the same character and mani-

fest the same works as it did in Him.

Thus you will be in harmony with every

precept of His law; for 'the law of the

Lord is perfect, restoring the soul.' Psalm

19:7, margin. Through love 'the righteous-

ness of the law' will be 'fulfilled in us, who

walk not after the flesh, but after the

Spirit.' Romans

8:4."—Thoughts From the

Mount of Blessing,

pages 77, 78.

In his farewell, what four items

of advice did Paul urge upon the

Corinthians? 2 Cor. 13:11, first part.

NOTE.—"The Lord has given us in His

Word definite, unmistakable instructions,

by obedience to which we may preserve

union and harmony in the church. Brethren

and sisters, are you giving heed to these

inspired injunctions? Are you Bible readers

and doers of the Word? Are you striving

to fulfill the prayer of Christ that His

followers might be one? 'The God of

patience and consolation grant you to be

like-minded one toward another according

to Christ Jesus: that ye may with one

mind and one mouth glorify God.'

"—Testi-

monies,

Vol. 5, p. 248.

I 45 I

Closing Greetings and Benediction

What divine attributes did Paul

commend to the Corinthians? 2 Cor.

13:11, last part.

10.

What type of greeting did he

ask them to extend to one another?

2 Cor. 13:12. Compare 1 Cor. 16:20,

second part.

NOTE.—"Kiss.

A common form of greet-

ing in the East. The holy kiss was a token

of Christian affection among believers (cf.

Rom. 16:16; 2 Cor. 13:12; 1 Thess. 5:26;

1 Peter 5:14). Paul seems to have desired

the Corinthian believers to give this token

to one another when they received his

letter, as a pledge of their newly awakened

Christian unity and love. The custom,

at least as later enjoined in the Apostolic

Constitutions (2:57; 8:11), was for men

to greet men, and women to greet women.

According to Palestinian custom the kiss

was on the cheek, forehead, beard, hands,

or feet, but not on the lips."—S.D.A.

Bible

Commentary,

on 1 Cor. 16:20.

11.

Who sent greetings to the

church at Corinth?

Cor. 13:13. Com-

pare 1 Cor. 16:20, first part.

12.

With what benediction did

Paul close his letter? 2 Cor. 13:14.

NOTE.—"This verse is unique in that

here alone, in the NT, what later came to

be known as the apostolic benediction ap-

pears in its complete form. From earliest

times it became a part of church liturgy.

It was also pronounced at the baptism of

new believers and at the dismissal of

Christian assemblies.

"Together with Matt. 28:19 this verse

provides the most complete and explicit

summary of the doctrine of the Trinity."—

S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on 2 Cor.

13:14.

[ 46 ]

THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING

March 26, 1966

Inter-American Division

You will not find a territory on the map called Inter-America, but to

Seventh-day Adventists there definitely is such a place! With headquarters

in Miami, Florida, United States, the Inter-American Division stretches as

far west as Lower California and Mexico; as far south as Colombia,

Venezuela, and the Guianas on the northern coast of South America; as

far east as the islands of the Caribbean; and as far north as the borders of

the United States of America.

In this vast territory, comprised of 27 countries and numerous islands,

live

TOO

million people. There are 91 million Spanish-speaking people,

of whom 91,000 are Seventh-day Adventists; 4

million French-speaking

people with 26,000 Seventh-day Adventists; and 4

million English-speak-

ing inhabitants with 68,000 Seventh-day Adventists.

To meet the challenge of this hour we feel the need of better trained

workers. Therefore, two major educational projects have been chosen to

benefit from the overflow this quarter. We believe that investing in Seventh-

day Adventist youth is the best investment we can make, for it pays large

dividends in a world torn by strife and nationalism. Therefore we solicit

the liberality of our people all around the world on the Thirteenth Sabbath

for a boarding academy in Venezuela and a secondary day school in the

French West Indies.

Sabbath School members who have failed to receive a senior

Lesson Quarterly

for the second quarter of 1966 will be helped by the following outline in studying

the first lesson. The title of the series is "Christian Virtues." The title of the

first lesson is "Goodness and Nobility." The memory verse is Matthew 5:16.

The study helps are

Testimonies,

Vol. 1, pp. 303-310; Vol. 5, pp. 532-541; Vol. 9,

pp. 19-29. The texts to be studied are:

Ques. 1. Luke 18:18, 19.

Ques. 2. Ek. 33:19; 34

:6, 7.

Ques. 3. Acts 10:38.

Ques. 4. Luke 4:18, 19.

Ques. 5. Ps. 14:2, 3.

Ques. 6. Rom. 2:4.

Ques. 7. Ps. 107:9 ; Matt. 5:6.

Ques. 8. Gal. 5:22, 23.

Ques. 9. 1 Peter 1:15, 16;

Matt. 5:48; Eph. 4:13. '

Ques. 10. Matt. 5:16; 1 Peter 2:12.

Ques. 11. Titus 2:11-14.

Ques. 12. Heb. 13:20, 21.

Ques. 13. Matt. 25:21.

[47

Honduras

COLOMBIA

PROJECTS

A boarding academy in Nirgua,



Ia.

A secondary school on the island

of Martinique in the French West

Indies.

Bahama Islands

Puerto

Jamaica



Republic

CARIBBEAN SEA

tiNTER-AMERICAN

DIVISION



CHURCH



SAS. SCH.

UNIONS



POPULATION CHURCHES WAIL WEAL

ANTILLIAN U.M.



12,925.000



217



20,559



31,615

CARIBBEAN U.M.



2,437,530



222



25,788



29.529

CENTRAL AMERICAN U.M.



14,317.243



205



19,596



' 29.883

COLOMBIA-VENEZUELA U.M.



26,023,246.



140



23.725



34,511

FRANCO-HAITIAN U.M.



5.250.000



100



26,518



36.723

MEXICAN U.M.



39.746.595



232



31.695



71.253

WEST INDIES U.M.



1,836,089



351



39,913



43,238

DIVISION



TOTALS



102,535,703



1,468



187,829



276,752

Trinidad